Bring on the controversial topics…
It’s been 500 shows of warming up, but now it’s time to address the stuff that people don’t talk about. I have some strong views about marijuana for medical reasons… I also think it would be interesting if it replaced America’s recreational drug of choice (alcohol) because of the amount of widespread destruction alcohol can cause.
Also, just so you know, I do not support the abuse of ANY drug… whether it’s alcohol, marijuana, or processed sugar. 
In this episode, I explain my views as well as answer some more questions on the sodium content of Himalayan sea salt and if heated tea can destroy nutrients in the food you’re already eaten.
Take a look…
Your question of the day: What are your thoughts on medical marijuana and what I covered in today’s show?
Click here, scroll down to the bottom of the page and leave your comments now!
Live Awesome!
Kev
8:22 pm on February 9th, 2010
I don’t know what to think about medical marijuana. Perhaps there are some who could benefit, but the people who I know personally are using it as a scam.
8:35 pm on February 9th, 2010
First I want to say, I tried it and do not like it, the smell alone makes me sick.
But if it is necessary I think it is fine, actually I don’t know why it is against the law.
It is no more dangerous that booze, I used to have a friend the smoked it all the time, I couldn’t understand why she smelled so funny till I found out she was driving hi.
Her senses were heightened, not like alcohol.
If I had a choice I would rather go with my friend with the weed than the guy who is drunk.
If I need a pain reliever for something like cancer I just have to drive about 40 minutes and buy as much as I want, bring it hiome and smoke it, that’s what they do now.If you ever say how much pain cancer and many other illness effect people you would vote for it too. I volunteer for hospice and there are nights I wish it didn’t bother since I could use a hit, but I don’t.
8:37 pm on February 9th, 2010
Very good video.Your testimony is uplifting for those who are on drugs and need to change or get off taking them as recreational usage.I concur with you the evils of alcohol as a prime destroyer of peoples lives as well as the millions of marriages and children involved as well as society. With respect to Marijuana it should not be allowed due to its rampant use and break down of society.But can be used if one uses it with a doctors approval in special cases other wise society will have a lot of people taking the stuff.
8:40 pm on February 9th, 2010
I agree totally with your take on alcohol…such a destructive drug!!! I would have to agree that it does outrank marijuana because of the many arenas of devastation involved with the use of alcohol.
As for the use of medical Marijuana, if people can truly benefit, by all means!!
8:41 pm on February 9th, 2010
Completely agree with you on the Marijuana alcohol debate. When was the last time you saw someone get violent smoking weed? Alcohol is devastating but accepted by society. Marijuana, very mild and banned?
8:41 pm on February 9th, 2010
Hey guys! I read a Harvard study stating that tannins block iron absorption. If true, that would affect our yummo green smoothies, yes?
In regards to medical marijuana, I think you brought up an amazing point about the addiction issues our society faces with pain killers. I genuinely never thought of it that way. Thanks for the perspective!
8:42 pm on February 9th, 2010
Not a user myself as I seem to get plenty high off of just being around good people. Have seen the good, bad, and ugly of how people engage with it though. Alcohol abuse is horrible too. Personally I think folks just need to seriously tune into their mind, body, and spirit and learn to do away with anything and everything that is toxic on any level to their individual system.
8:43 pm on February 9th, 2010
marijuana might be better as a painkiller, but isn’t raw food even better?
also, i know for sure that raw food and being healthy will make you more spiritual than anything else…
and based on my observations, i believe that it causes memory loss and depression. does that really sound like a healthy alternative? it’s just another one of those things that makes you feel good while you’re having it, not before, nor after.
that being said, if alcohol is legal, i don’t see why marijuana couldn’t be as well. people are also free of being self-destructive i guess…
8:47 pm on February 9th, 2010
I am in agreement with Kevin that alcohol is really an abusive drug in our culture. With the addiction capabilities and the abuse of it seen in drinking and driving, I think it should be banned. Marijuana has been around for many years and with it gaining medicinal usage, we will have to see if it has benefits for those with pain such as cancer, etc. I personally think it is a shame that we live in a society with such excesses and unhappiness/stress that people need to alter their states of mind with drugs and alcohol. I know it is alluring in the initial beginning, but as time wears on, the habit becomes habitual and people loose control of it. I feel sorry for those that spiral down that path and loose out on finding healthy ways to live in this world. Get high on feeling good. That is a habit we should be embracing.
8:52 pm on February 9th, 2010
Good topic.
I was wondering recently about some unnamed raw foodies sucking down the poison squeezed out of a type of tropical frog. Talk about toxic!
medical M is controversial, yes. it’s efficacy is not proven. it seems to work to change people’s perception of pain, rather than dulling the actual pain receptors, which is interesting.
People can be prosecuted for using medical M, though, even in states where it’s “legal” so, caveat emptor.
9:01 pm on February 9th, 2010
I also agree that the THC in marijuana is not as destructive as alcohol, if at all. In fact I take the side of Daniel Vitalis: I think getting high is good for us, it enhances creativity, boosts mood, etc. As long as there are no side effects. I get high off of cacao beans quite often, of course not nearly as high as smoking weed can make you. But I’ve heard that eating marijuana raw can get one high as well and I have no qualms about that. In fact alcohol in small quantities I don’t think is bad either. I’ve lost weight drinking alcohol once, as it is a diuretic, and causes me to dance, jump around, etc. There isn’t much evidence on that though yet.
But I don’t think using psychedelics, like the saguaro cactus, magic mushrooms, and other psychedelic vines of the amazon, are necessarily a terrible thing if they are to be used occasionally. I mean the guy who invented the polymerase chain reaction was high! Cmon let’s have FUN!
9:07 pm on February 9th, 2010
I do hope you make another creative film with your Key West commrades. The truth lurks in all of your daily creative videos!
The “medicinal” use of cannibus sativa could be compared to “euthanasia” in the minds of certain animals.
CASE IN POINT:
If I am undergoing chemotherapy and also experiencing hellacious pain, and I cannot have a bit of Cannibus Sativa to subdue my pain; of course I would choose, as a human, euthanasia.
However,as a human, euthanasia could not be my choice. Cannibus Sativa could not be my choice either.
Why is it that we are so quick to kill our pets. Because of their pain? Does that mean we should then let the most rational animal (homo-sapiens) on the planet live on in pain, because of our stupendous judgements about Cannibus Sativa?
I wish I were a carrot, or a dog, or a cat, or a bunny…maybe all of you will,too. Because after veiwing this following film-link, it is not the homo-sapien that is rational. It is the carrot. Yes, indeed.
http://www.earthlings.com/
9:11 pm on February 9th, 2010
Go Kevin!!! So many would be afraid to take a stand like this to the public. I agree I do not support the abuse of ANY drug and I do believe Alcohol is worse. I think if they made Mar legal to the point like cigarettes and alcohol it would be best.
9:18 pm on February 9th, 2010
herb doesnt cure cancer – it distracts people from the pain they r experiencing while stressing the adrenals, stressing the sympathetic nervous system, triggering cortisol production and introducing toxins to the body ..
those peeps smokin herb are NOT taking enough action to reduce pain thru diet & lifestyle, they r lookin for a ‘band aid’ solution just like taking aspirin, for reduction in pain which ultimately does not encourage health & healing
marijuana should be legalized for MANY reasons and anyone should have the right to smoke it or do any drug they choose, sick or not, but peeps need to stop lying to themselves about smokin herb …
having said that, ayahuasca or other psychoactive, medicinal drugs are a great idea IMO .. Im all for it when its done for the right reasons
9:24 pm on February 9th, 2010
and while we’r at it .. rolling papers are HIGHLY toxic (dioxin), marijuana grown hydroponically is not ‘natural’ organic, or healthy adn neither is inhaling burning fumes is damaging
Im not against people smoking, IM against people lying to themselves and others
If someone wants to get high, a vaporizor, eating ganja (brownies and cookies, for example) or inhaling cool smoke is less harmful than popular methods
…and NO Im not a stoner, Ive researched the topic for years becuase I was always confused as to why tobacco, alcohol & sugar are HIGHLY poisonous yet legal and heavily promoted in this country while less harmful plants are demonized and made illegal which proliferates an illegal black market that destroys human culture
yay to nature .. boo to government
9:36 pm on February 9th, 2010
I really like your comment about alcohol being the “gateway” drug and not marijuana. My son has Crohn’s Disease and “if” he were to use it, it would be beneficial during tough periods.
9:40 pm on February 9th, 2010
Ok… I beleive you’re right about alcohol. It is the gateway drug. However, marijuana is still a drug that causes terrible problems as well. Personally, my parents’ divorce and abusive situation was ultimitly caused by marijuana. I also don’t see it as much of a pain reliever. Yes, I’ve done it in the past and to this day I don’t see much of a reason for it. It just tends to make the majority of users stupid! Some people it can enlighten by just allowing them to zone things out and concentraite on a problem. This could also be done a naumber of other ways. Fasting is a good subsitute. Anyways, that’s just my thoughts on the subject.
9:48 pm on February 9th, 2010
I am definitely PRO GREEN!
And I, too, think it would be interesting to see what would happen if marijuana were to replace alcohol consumption! My goodness, what a different world we would have.
I used to wonder if the reason they were keeping it illegal had to do with all of the profit they make from arresting those who have it. But if you think about it, all those people are more than likely going to serve some jail time (if it was enough to go to jail, I suppose), which then takes away any money we’ve made from it. I think America as a country would benefit from it!
You have to get real about things: and it’s a plant. That’s it! You don’t have to smoke it. You don’t have to use it. But it’s part of nature, and I don’t think that there’s something nature gives us that isn’t somewhat special and unique. In my mind, it definitely is a miraculous plant and needs further funding for research.
What saddens me is that there are people with DEBILITATING diseases (I’ve seen documentaries) that seem to feel much better after using it medically – compared to other prescription drugs. Another thing that saddens me is that we can’t even grow hemp… for clothing, a great protein source, or anything.
I don’t even think a subject like this is “controversial,” – I mean, it has it’s “bad” stigmas, but those are all lies and definitely old lies. Have you seen those old movies showing that you get all crazy when you smoke? Those make me laugh….
Research is growing more and more to prove that this drug has properties that we could benefit from… Wow, thanks mother nature
9:48 pm on February 9th, 2010
Kevin, you made mention that you wouldn’t recommend swallowing sodium bicarbonate, why is that? Are you familiar with the healing protocol utilizing baking soda by Dr. Tulio Simoncini or Dr. Mark Sircus?
9:50 pm on February 9th, 2010
Raw food doesn’t cut it for excruciating back pain. My son has been on so many different kinds of pain killers for several years. He hates them as the side effects finally get to be too much and he has to go off them; only to endure as long as he can w/the pain and then he makes another doctor appt. to find something new. Those meds are poisoning him. Right now he is in a treatment center detoxing from a fentanyl patch for his pain. He is in agony. He does get relief from medical marijuana and I believe the few negative effects are no comparison to the opiates. I am working on him to make sure he gets his daily green smoothie and carrot/spinach drink too. His newly found spinal tumor hopefully will begin to shrink.
9:53 pm on February 9th, 2010
I think you are right on! Although I don’t believe that marijuana is good for you, it is far better for you than alcohol… especially if you are eating it or using a vaporizer. And as you said, addictions whether it be alcohol, marijuana, or sugar will negatively effect your health if not kept in check. You guys are awesome!
9:57 pm on February 9th, 2010
It Will stop cancer cells
It will stop altimeres.
It will stop the spread of cancer
If taxed it will save America and stop the drug cartels
10:00 pm on February 9th, 2010
Kevin, you’re too kind. Controversy? Our whole culture is sick to the core, separated from our plant kingdom, ourselves, and each other to the point that you, as an honest commentator, or evaluator, has to apologize for a very common sense and level headed approach to the difficult subject of entheogens. The desire for alternative experiences with mind altering plants is as old as human existence. The missing piece these days is respect for mother nature and her gifts. As I’m sure you’re aware, the damage from the drug war and the propaganda that it propagates is far worse then the problem of abuse, to the point that even talking about this topic is difficult. Kind of like religion. It always amazes me that an alcoholic, pharmacutically drugged up society with poisoned water and food, not to mention other inequities, can brow beat people who want to have an honest discussion. Have courage and don’t back away from the difficult parts of this conversation.
While I’m thinkin’, two books I recommend, slightly related. A Century of War, by William Engdahl and Trading with the Enemy, by Charles Higham. Also, Food of the Gods, by Terrence Mckenna
10:03 pm on February 9th, 2010
It’s really only good for escaping and you always come back to reality … so why not roll your sleeves up (and yes I see the possible pun) and learn how to get high on life.
10:07 pm on February 9th, 2010
I used weed for 15+ years for all kinds of reasons, I thought, but mainly just to escape. I agree alchol causes so many problems and is a very dangerous drug eventhough it’s so accepted in our society. However, over the years I’ve also seen an EQUAL amount of destruction with the use of this so called “medicinal” herb. Destruction on so many different levels. It ain’t all good and everyone isn’t layed back and peaceful when they smoke. I think the key in my opinion is moderation whether we’re talking alcohol, weed, fungi, etc. In excess they are all going to catch up with you in the end. And as far as the dispensaries in the 13 states that dispense weed products as “medicinal” for different chronic issues for the most part it’s just a copout. People going through chemo that can’t eat and find benefit from this plant I don’t think should be denied it if it’s helping them. But for someone who is terminally ill smokeing anything on any level is not a good idea. There are ways to isolate the active ingredient in that plant that would be much more benefical and safe for them considering their condition. But I’ve seen the videos of what’s going on in these despenaries and that’s hardly what is really happening. Just a bunch of stoners with a prop doc’s script getting their fix. Which is their right if the law is what it is in their city. That’s my take based on my experience anyway.
10:13 pm on February 9th, 2010
Thanks Kev for addressing my questions on this controversial topic! I feel very strongly that alcohol is nothing more than a drug, but often is not seen as a drug as it’s become socially acceptable to drink. I absolutely agree that marijuana is far less harmful.
And although it’s been years since I’ve play’d around with marijuana and psychedelics, I think it’s great to open up a dialogue about this, as they are commonly used in the raw food movement. If you ever come across additional into on the potential nutritional benefits of consuming medicinal herbs/mushrooms raw (rather than smoked), I’d love to hear more about it.
Thanks again for openly addressing this, and for your genuine response
-Mila
10:15 pm on February 9th, 2010
I have to agree with you Kevin. Marijuana is a much better choice than alcohol or synthetic pain killers.
10:23 pm on February 9th, 2010
jon – hopefull ur hateful & ignorant post will be removed, but if not, let me say…
I never said the pledge of allegiance
Marijuana deosnt cause misjudgment in decision making, ur hateful ideas clearly do though
Forcing prayer in school is fascism, forcing anything on children is unethical
America was destroyed? WHat? u mean destroyed from the time when we had legalized slavery, we used to hang people in the town square, burtn withces cuz they understood nature, women were not allowed to vote and peole wore funny hats ???
America was never stolen, it never ‘was’ anything other than a fantasy by overly-patriotic hillbillies that are uneducated on world history & human evolution adn have had their minds hijacked by organized religion
dude, seriously, turn offRush Limbaugh adn maybe you should light up a spliff and lighten up bro
10:25 pm on February 9th, 2010
hi kevin
i agree with you about the benefits of using marijuana for medicinal purposed, as it has great value and does truly help people…i would venture a guess that the quality is much better regulated so you aren’t getting a “bad batch” of it
Also, visit my blog http://www.rawsomegal.wordpress.com and read about my 42 day cleanse that I finished mid-January and I have also written about my transition back to food. I continue to write about health related topics and post daily (off on weekends). To read about my cleanse from day 1, click on December 2009. Share this with others who may be interested.
Namaste!
Chef Mindy aka Ageless Raw Beauty
10:32 pm on February 9th, 2010
I have had family members who have contracted alcoholic hepatitis from drinking alcohol on a regular basis. So for health, as well as emotional reasons, I am not a fan of it. I have actually advised a younger person who was abusing alcohol that he would be better off smoking marijuana, and now that he has switched he is much more functional and enjoyable to be around. The optimal choice would be to not abuse any drug, but in this case I thought he should at least be informed about the health consequences of alcohol versus marijuana.
10:59 pm on February 9th, 2010
I agree that herb is better than alcohol. It’s a lot less processed, for one thing. However! I have very strong feelings that all drugs, alcohol included, sugar included – exist only to show us how much more we can be in life, and thats all. I think of all of them, heavier psychotropics included, in the exact same light as the training wheels on a 5 year olds bicycle. They are training wheels. That’s all they are meant to be. The concept of ceremony is only valid until you ‘get it’, I feel. Then you are sovreign and no longer need assistance from the plant world. That’s graduation, growth.
In the same way you wouldn’t use training wheels past the time you needed to, neither need drugs be used once you’ve seen what they have to show you. Recreational use is simply ignorant and callous. Anyone with that degree of ignorance or that little regard for the spiritual wisdom embodied in these plants pays the price in a disinfranchised life experience, or at worst, a sad, lost life.
Having said that, I fully believe in legalization with full education of the truth of plant medicine so that people can make informed choices and choose to live and learn.
11:05 pm on February 9th, 2010
I think these pictures of the brain say it all:
http://www.amenclinics.com/brain-science/spect-image-gallery/spect-atlas/images-of-alcohol-and-drug-abuse/#marijuana Maybe you’d like to interview Dr. Amen sometime Kevin. I don’t agree with all his treatment methods but his scans are fascinating.
There are enough other non-drug substances and therapies besides marijuana to kill pain.
Forbidding alcohol until age 21 is plain ridiculous. In the places where kids grow up with a bit of wine with dinner there’s far less drunkenness. Forbid it and it becomes attractive. Young Americans and Swedes are known world wide for their horrible drinking binges while on vacation. Why? Because it’s illegal for them to drink at home and they’ve never gotten used to it. One American mother I know has a breathalyzer and tests her older teenagers!!!! Gosh, in some countries they’d be married with children at that age, LOL! Let the poor kids grow up.
I spent 10 years in Germany and never saw the problems I see here with teenage drinking. It’s just not that much of a thrill when it’s legal.
11:18 pm on February 9th, 2010
That’s an interesting point Sharon, maybe part of the problem with alcohol has to do with rebellion. But then again, I’m a Russian immigrant and we didn’t have a drinking age either, but it sure hasn’t prevented the growing problem with alcoholism in Russia! Lol
11:18 pm on February 9th, 2010
The idea of medical marijuana is great, but as Doug Stanhope says, it wastes too much time. The argument should be “I have the right to do whatever the hell I want with my own body, so long as it doesn’t harm anyone else”. Case closed. Marijuana is illegal for no other reason that it is a plant of freedom. It can be used for food, to make rope, textiles, paper, and even fuel. What’s more, THC is one of the most potent anti-oxidants known, though it is much more valuable as a medicine when eaten. There’s a Canadian named Rick Simpson who has even been curing people of serious diseases by treating people with marijuana essential oil. The medical mafia took him to court of course, but eased off when it was shown that he had been giving away the oil, not selling it. I’ll post a link to an interview with Mr. Simpson- it’s a classic story of naivete. He thought the medical community would embrace him for his discovery, but he learned the truth the hard way: the medical mafia have no interest whatsoever in curing people. The name of the game is perpetual treatment=$$$. I personally would love to see pot legalized so that I could ingest it on a daily basis. With prices the way they are now, it’s too expensive to cook with it, except on special occasions. Of course, even if it were legalized, the mass-market producers would certainly find a way to ruin it- either through genetically modifying the seeds, or spraying it with toxins like they do with tobacco. But at least if it were legal to grow it, we could get around that problem, since pot is the easiest plant on earth to grow. And by growing it ourselves, we could rest easy, knowing that we’re not “funding the terrorists”. Of course, if we didn’t want to fund terrorism, I suppose the first thing to do would be to stop paying our taxes, but I digress. Anyway, here’s the link to an interview with Rick Simpson. This is important information and very much worth investigating, for anyone dealing with serious health issues. http://www.mikehagan.com/2012/mp3/051908_RICK_SIMPSON.mp3
11:21 pm on February 9th, 2010
Hey Kevin,
Regarding hypertension….part of this is an issue with inflammation and lack of enough enzymes, part of it is also a balance in the type of salts in the body, and part too many estrogenic items in the diet. Too much NaCl is not good if you have a lack of Potasstium salts in the body (for instance). Also a lack of water is an issue. Some people actually have a lack of salts – see Dr. Batmangheligj’s site. He wrote the book “Your Body’s Many Cries for Water”. He put a pinch of sea salt in water in 1 or 2 glasses of water to cure reflux acid, asthma attacks, and issues with ulcers. I’ve tried this and it does work. So just as one can overdo salt one can also get the wrongs salts or not enough salt.
Might be good on a few carrots too!
11:27 pm on February 9th, 2010
1. agreed about people using spirituality as an excuse to do psychoactve drugs
2. agree that mj is a better choice than alcohol, but that escape is escape, and doing any kind of drug is an escape method…and in addition all drugs are toxic to the liver in the very least…and
3. What is UP with that “john” guy!? He is a racist and a total bigot! Not cool, brother!
11:32 pm on February 9th, 2010
After using it for 30 years, being a vegan for 15 years, at 64 full of energy I agree 100% with you.
11:39 pm on February 9th, 2010
As someone who grew up in BC, Canada, where pot is quite common, discussions lie these are quite common / not shocking to me. Of course there are people who scam the system, but medical marijuana is a far better option than most pharmaceutical products. It’s only addictive for those who get addicted to habitual behaviours, and typically one wouldn’t smoke it as often as a cigarette smoker smokes. Even better, it can be cooked into food (because it is unfiltered, smoking mary-jane is very bad for your health). I think it is much less damaging than alcohol (though the munchies probably don’t help the obesity issue). It is totally ridiculous to me that alcohol is legal and so socially acceptable, yet marijuana is not. I have not smoked marijuana is a very long time, but as a teen, went through a few periods where one day a week I’d have a fair amount. I wasn’t ever much of a drinker, so marijuana was my “party item” or choice or how I “rebelled”/unwound.
It’s ridiculous to me that the medical community has no problem injecting people with toxic substances as “treatment”, yet smoking a plant is so “dangerous” for one’s health – YES there are negative effects, but I believe that there is a time and a place.
One a semi-related note, I think other substances should be regulated to spiritual practices. People need ceremony, ritual and a grounding in the conjunction of body and soul in order to be able to use drugs for any higher purpose. MOst people may expound on the “mind-expanding” qualities of these substances, but don’t really know how to use them. These are not social tools, these are powerful substances that should be respected. Even more, our bodies should be respected. We should be aware of the ramifications of these drugs, drinks, foods, etc.
12:10 am on February 10th, 2010
Well said, Frances
12:19 am on February 10th, 2010
I like that perspective Frances, if psychoactive plants are taken they should be with respect and understanding of how they’re traditionally used, not for recreational use.
Overall, I’m starting to think that the plant world is misunderstood in the West. And I’m equally referring to Chinese medicine. There are so many medicinal uses around the world of plants and herbs that are virtually unknown in our culture… would be worthwhile to research all the different botanical uses of plants
12:39 am on February 10th, 2010
There’s a reason its called ‘dope’ and i have to say that i’v around alot of people who acted very ‘dopey’it..it increases appetite and takes aways motivation to get off the couch and excercise..i’v also seen some folks have severe anxiety disorder because of it or even lose their mind. it might help some with sever pain but anything that alters your mind is not healthy for your body and brain(be it booze or drug of any mind altering type)..its just another escape..if you want a ‘high’ get high on being healthy, eating healthy, and working on your emotions..also, theres so much pollution in the world, do you really want to purposely pollute yourself? how could can smoking anything be good for your lungs or brain! I would rather have a clear mind anyday.
12:39 am on February 10th, 2010
I don’t like either substance. Addition is ugly and they do both cause crime, break ins, stealing , etc. Crimes are not limited to just one or the other but both so they can continue to get high, get buzzed or whatever.
Interesting information about the tea. Thanks Kevin.
12:41 am on February 10th, 2010
Hey, Antonio. Whassup?
As someone who grew up in New Zealand, the whole marijuana thing is a non-issue. I’d definitely agree that alchohol is responsible for far more anti-social behaviour. No doubt ’bout it – I have massive evidence of that.
I guess I’m like Kevin: I feel so much better since I cleaned up that I would never go back to that kind of life. You only do it if you don’t have a better option.
I think we really need to cast aside the political associations we have with these substances. If smoking the leaves of a particular plant relieves your pain, no way would I deny you that. But if you’re doing it regularly, you’ve just got too much time on your hands and you need to look to the inside first.
12:45 am on February 10th, 2010
It’s time to stop looking for unhealthy escapes from life and start living a clean healthy life style..A clear mind and heart is the only way to peace. Not drugs.Not booze.
12:51 am on February 10th, 2010
Antonio,
Prayer wasn’t forced on anyone… so I’m not sure what you mean. I apologize for John’s comments… I’m a Christian and I love everyone… even Zionist Jews… whatever that means. Christians have made a lot of mistakes in the name of God… and that’s what happens when we think we know a lot about HIm… but actually don’t take the time to KNOW HIM. Blessings to you!
John,
Prayer is still in the schools… it simply has to be student led… not teacher initiated. So is prayer really out of school then? No… we simply need our Christian youth to understand the power of prayer and living a Kingdom lifestyle to see the culture around us radically changed by the love of God. While I understand your concerns and frustrations, pointing the finger and blaming won’t solve the problem. Radical love will. His Kingdom come… His will be done… On earth as it is in Heaven.
2:29 am on February 10th, 2010
I haven’t tried it but, from what I have read, you can’t smoke it to heal cancer. First you need to make oil from the budding plant, and then that has to be ingested. Just a few drops at a time on your tongue to start and then increase the dosage. I think I remember that you need to do a lot of it. It has been a long time since I’ve seen the video.
See The Rick Simpson Story:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pjhT9282-Tw
2:51 am on February 10th, 2010
Marijauna is the only drug specified as a steping stone drug. In othe words, it is a drug used to start teens onto more danderous drugs. This is a serious concern for parents. It alone is blamed as the culprut for turning people onto hard drugs. No way is beer to blame, right? Everyone that is healthy thinks they know what’s best for the unhealthy. I feel the same as most people do, no drug should be used to permantly to escape reality. This is exactly what our doctors are trained to do. Recognize this, a doctor will eventually put a loved one on a drug very much more dangerous than marijuana. The prescription will never expire. It will attack another organ which will lead to another drug. This will continue and continue. All the while that these drugs are being taken, your loved ones will be allowed to drive. I can only answer this question with a question. Why does marijuana gain the reputation of being the most evil of drugs.
3:15 am on February 10th, 2010
Isn’t it better to keep your health at the best and not looking for some stuff that will ease health that you corrupted with poor choices? I would say no to MJ.
I have one more question, though. School MD is giving me hard time because I told her that I’m suspicious about PPD test (Mantoux). She says it is only test and that it isn’t vaccine so it doesn’t harm at all. What is your opinion on that issue?
Thank you for answering my question.
Marijana (pronounced as MaryAnna)
PS. Congrats on your 500 era!
3:17 am on February 10th, 2010
Personally weed makes me eat too much and I become too contemplative, but I have never done anything stupid like I have while drunk. Now, Medicinal marijuana is proving to be an effective treatment for many ailments. If you have not seen the Rick Simpson story you must. Run From The Cure is a documentary showing THC curing cancer. A real cure according to the people in this documentary. This documentary was first posted by Mike Adams on his web site. You can watch the whole doc on you tube, but here is the link to the site where you can watch it in full.
http://www.phoenixtearsmovie.com/
Please watch this and I swear you will think a little different about this whole subject. THC used the right way, not smoked, can be one of the answers to a healthier future for all.
3:24 am on February 10th, 2010
We don’t agree with the use of alcohol or marijuana or caffeine. They are all addictive and mind altering. If people ate healthly there would be less sicknesses and no need for pain killers to lessen pain. This comment comes from a nutrition consultant who works with people to change their diet and lifestyle to become healthier.
3:42 am on February 10th, 2010
I DO NOT believe in medication of any sort, whether medical or otherwise. I believe in the healing power of Father God and His created food supply, at all times. Anything that we can become addicted to is as far as I am concerned a drug!
3:50 am on February 10th, 2010
Yikes Kevin! You started something here. I am just not sure about the whole thing. It is REALLY hard to say what the world would be like if it had been marijuana that was legal and alcohol illegal. Because history unfolded the way it did, I doubt we will ever know. Sure it is “unfair” that one is legal and the other not, but I am not so sure being “fair” in this case would really help. There are massive addiction/abuse problems in our society–and by that I certainly don’t just mean America or the West or whatever–opening the legal doors to another source may not be the most clever thing to do. And we know what happened when they tried to make alcohol illegal during prohibition. It is just a really complex and difficult issue and I am not sure a systemic solution (using the law) will ever do much to solve it. (Some background: Having lived for more than 10 years in BC, Canada, I can attest to the relaxed way in which people see Marijuana there. But I was never in contact much with people who really used it. Those I did have contact with did have problems with abuse. Having also lived–still do–for more than 10 years in Germany, I must report that though alcohol is not so strictly forbidden here, there is an ever growing problem with its serious abuse.) I think many of your other subscribers are right, when you are healthy and happy, you just don’t need or want any of it.
On the other hand, I agree that the illegalisation has cause society to demonize a plant that has a LOT of very practical and legitimate uses. Hemp is a very old culture plant and it is just silly to associate it only with drug use. I have hemp in the walls of my house as insulation material. It is great! As for the medicinal uses, I think you have said it all. When you consider the whole pharma industry, why shouldn’t Cannabis be allowed like any other drug? Oh, because you can’t patent it?? Just watch someone will probably find a way to extract something from it, alter it ever so slightly and patent that for medicinal use. Halt! Sorry I was going down the path of sarcasm there.
Anyway, that is my 3 cents on this question. Thanks as always for your great shows. I find you guys really refreshing and inspiring!
3:53 am on February 10th, 2010
Excellent show, and I so agree with you about marijuana! There are plenty of scientific studies showing that some of the cannabinoids are protective of people after heart attacks (ie. actually decreases the damage from them), fight cancer, reduce or stop altogether the seizures in epilepsy, help with depression (but not suitable for bi-polar disorder) and the list of benefits keeps on growing. Unfortunately marijuana has been demonized. Far safer than most other drugs out there, and far far far safer than prescription medications! The laws are so hypocrytical on this topic, mostly due to the power of pharmaceutical companies I’m sure.
4:02 am on February 10th, 2010
I’ve been suffering from night terrors my whole life (I’m now 30 and married. I also have 3 kids). I consider myself to be a responsible adult, and I’ve tried many different prescription medications to no avail. However, when I smoke marijuana or drink alcohol, I sleep through the night. I don’t want to become an alcoholic, so drinking is out.
Living in Israel, marijuana is legal here for medical purposes. My doctor recently wrote me a prescription at my request to get medical cannabis. I’m waiting for approval from the government, but there are many conditions that marijuana can help.
Synthetic drugs often have terrible side effects that are much worse than marijuana.
Smoking in a responsible way is ok in my opinion.
Keep up the good work Kev. By the way, you look totally stoned in the video where you’re talking about coconuts and couldn’t stop laughing. It was posted a long time ago.
4:38 am on February 10th, 2010
Wow, we do have a righteous crowd, especially toward the end. Mind altering can be so expansive; please give it a try! Marijuana is liberating, lightening up the most dogmatic (food dogma too!). Could surely be the answer to world peace. Gets you out of your beliefs, your prejudices, brings you into happiness and love for all beings. Just like raw foods! Which one is most expeditious to move our world into the reality it was created for?? Either or. Whatever works. Let it all work!
4:47 am on February 10th, 2010
While M is on the subject helping cancer people with pain, I would like to mention the Budwig Diet. I had stage 4 lymphatic cancer, and refused the chemotherapy. I came across this on the net, and it is a shame that people don’t know about it. This saved my life. I have been clean for the last three years. It would be nice if you could do a show on this.
http://www.cancertutor.com/Cancer/Budwig.html
http://www.beating-cancer-gently.com
http://www.healingcancernaturally.com
4:50 am on February 10th, 2010
To Rocco & Bernadette: If you have a minute, I’d be interested to hear about your situation as nutrition consultants. I’d particularly like to know if there are any legal restrictions on how you can advertise your services and advise people. TIA
5:01 am on February 10th, 2010
Grass aswell as any other drug is used as a form of escapism, and the problem is with chemical highs the body becomes accustomed to them. The need for them increases so it can be very difficult to function without them. Some may never be able to function without them, others may be able with great determination (and prayer) to readjust and become free. Live free and don’t use them in the first place!
6:10 am on February 10th, 2010
Hi Kev, what about all the sacred herbal beers that Daniel Vitalis talks’ about, would you include all the indigenous “medicinal” beers in the No Alcohol list?
6:22 am on February 10th, 2010
Totally agree, the only reason why I think alcohol would be a better choice as a “recreational drug” is because drinking a little won’t get you drunk, but one hit of marijuana and you feel something. It can’t really be monitored.
Over all, I’d vote you for president =)
7:11 am on February 10th, 2010
Alternative consciousness should be taught in schools. If people have a proper outlet for their spiritual quests, there would be less drug abuse. Some of the best movies, tv shows and music where created while on drugs. How can a plant be illegal anyway? More education for the children and young adults. More education on how food makes you feel would be a good thing. Maybe then people would grow more proper food, and get rid of plastics all together.
7:19 am on February 10th, 2010
There are lots of very strong opinions in our society about drug use in general and marijuana use for pain and suffering. One thing that I find disturbing, though, is the mindset that we should ‘ban’ everything we don’t agree with. After the sad happening of Liam Nieson’s wife dying from a ski accident, there was a group advocating that we outlaw skiing! In a free society the right to make choices means that we have the right to make some bad choices at times. That’s how we learn.
8:25 am on February 10th, 2010
I fully Agree with you Kev about alcohol and pot, I personally don’t do either, but I ‘d take a stoner over a drunk ANYDAY to deal with!
8:27 am on February 10th, 2010
Hi Kevin,
I often hear you talk about your past and think it would be an interesting and helpful show to tell us what started you on the path to health. For instances who introduced you to your first raw meal and what did you think the first time you ate something raw. How long did it take you to clean up your act. Were you all for it or was it a hard road to convince you this is the right road. Did you think it was for you? Would like to hear your story.
9:39 am on February 10th, 2010
Wow Kev, you were right!
All this controversy hmmm! I just have a question about the amount of resin that marijuana leaves in your lungs. I heard that it is 10x the amount that is left from even cigarette smoke…and we all know how bad that they are for you. I am not saying that marijuana doesn’t have it’s medicinal place in our community…but with all the controversary about alcohol and marijuana…would like to know more about resin, and the effects that this has on your lungs.
9:43 am on February 10th, 2010
My brother-in-law (54) is a type II diabetic with extremely high BP, congestive heart failure, severe diabetic neuropathy, fast fading eyesight and near end stage renal failure (among other things) is now on dialysis permanently. I’ve been trying with much difficulty and opposition to ‘train’ him in the ways of health and he is unwilling to change to a more healthful lifestyle (NO meat, NO dairy, NO cigs & beer). The dialysis (in addition to insulin and more than 20 other pharmaceuticals daily [including several opiates for pain]) keeps him in a near constant state of nausea. Medical marijuana has definitely come to the rescue for him, allowing just enough relief to eat a bit. Fortunately, our state allows this.
When there is so much suffering of humanity, no matter if it IS ‘self-inflicted’, I see no harm in this ‘controversial’ means of help and relief. We all deserve relief from suffering, no matter the treatment modality. While I do not believe it is healing those that choose it, this ‘treatment’ truly does more good than harm and should be readily available to all that could possibly benefit.
Personally, I do not use ‘the herb’, and haven’t since I was a young teen (more than 40 years ago) since the unpleasant effects I received were far from the reason most people use it.
9:47 am on February 10th, 2010
DANGER, DON’T SMOKE POT!!!
Pot, on a metaphysic level, screws up your ascention plan that is incripted in your dna. Also,it slowly opens the ”door’ to a reptilian shadow (from the lower 4th dimension)to get attached to you through your 2 lower chakras.
My psychic and physicist friend was strucked by a lightning when she was 6 and she can see all those things.
Around the pot smokers, I can see a kind of brown energy and their vibe is sort of ”not all there”, like an out of order tv station.
Blessings bunches to you all.
9:48 am on February 10th, 2010
*QUESTION-OFF-THE-TOPIC*
I have been trying to transition to raw food. All of this is so new to me and my family. My husband and I are hypothyroid. We are trying to drink green juice, but have recently read that KALE interfere’s with thyroid function/taking thyroid med’s, and iron absorption. Do you know anything about this topic? Cruciferous veggies are supposed to be the big offenders of hypothyroidism. Can you eat them later in the day after taking your medication? Do naturopath help with hypothyroidism? What greens can we eat?
10:10 am on February 10th, 2010
Great commentary Kevin! As a woman who has struggled with alcohol abuse in my past but no more- and former pot smoker myself I couldn’t agree more that alcohol abuse causes far more health and social, relational problems. I thankfully was never drawn to abuse pot and it never caused me the personal harm that my alcohol abuse did. I think an equally destructive problem than debating the legality of pot, (my home state of Mass recently decriminalized it finally- is the negative vibe of judgmentalism that many people, including myself at times espouse about thinking they know best about what foods, beverages and yes, recreational drugs that people should choose to put into their bodies. We all vibe at different levels and while one person may feel more expansive smoking pot, another may become paranoid and not enjoy the experience. I worked as a nutritionist in Boston’s most poverty stricken, inner city and the alienation and resignation is so great when people live in those circumstances, they seek self soothing and relief in whatever ways they can. Not unlike a white collar workaholic! Truly our human condition is one. I’m all for letting life consequences be our best teacher. Learning to love and accept all people and their choices just as they are is a nobel and stress- free way to live.. Byron Katie says, there is great beauty and freedom in the acceptance of what is! In the meantime, let’s legalize pot nationwide, tax and regulate it by assuring it is organic and pestiside free it and let the great American experiment continue!
10:11 am on February 10th, 2010
**Another question off topic** Kevin, can you please address the controversial topic of the blood type diet by Dr. Peter D’Adamo? Do you know if the lignen issue only involves cooked foods and not raw? I know there is science behind his “Right 4 Your Type” books but am wondering about it from a raw perspective. I’m a blood type A and really don’t want to be eating nightshades, cabbage, etc. if the lignens will hurt me in the long run. Thx!
Regarding today’s topic, I agree with you wholeheartedly about alcohol. I cannot see one benefit to it; but, I can’t see any benefit to sugar or tobacco either. I cannot speak to marijuana. I’ve never smoked it and don’t feel educated enough on the subject; however, if I were in pain from a medical issue, I sure would want the option to use it instead of Big Pharma drugs if I researched it and found it was right for me. It just makes me angry, as stated above, that sugar, alcohol and tobacco are legal and other things aren’t. I guess there isn’t enough big money behind the other things to get them legalized.
10:31 am on February 10th, 2010
To quote (or probably misquote) Doug Graham, isn’t this the ‘would you rather cut off your hand or cut off your foot’ dilemma.
We need to get to the root of the need to self medicate.
As society’s pain increases, so does the misuse of drugs. Prescription, over the counter, social, illegal (or raw chocolate!?!).
No-one wants to be addicted, it just on some level, it seems like the better choice. (Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World has an interesting perspective on this).
Obviously prohibition or criminalising drugs doesn’t work – especially now that being drunk and taking drugs are increasingly the norm and therefore increasingly socially acceptable.
As always, love is the answer. Just got to find a way of smoking it!
10:41 am on February 10th, 2010
Alcohol is a dangerous drug! No question there.
More widespread marijuana use instead of alcohol abuse would make me wonder about “second hand smoke” from users.
11:23 am on February 10th, 2010
I have been on the same vibe for my whole adult life – Pot should be legal to grow in small amounts. I don’t believe any substance should be habitually taken to escape reality, but alcohol is way more harmful than pot. I applaud you Kevin for tackling this very political subject….Blessings
11:35 am on February 10th, 2010
Maybe some people are new to watching these videos, but many times Kevin have spoken on topics about which people continue to have questions. Use the search on the top right. There are a plethora of past videos that more than likely will be helpful. I have searched out topics in the past and found great videos responding to my exact question or they will give links to a more in depth discussion.
Just thought this would be helpful.
Alcohol has its place in moderation, however, moderation seems to be seriously lacking in our society. As for marijuana, I have no experience with, but smoking of any kind seems like a pollutant to the body.
11:52 am on February 10th, 2010
Don’t dilude yourself, marijuana is a gateway drug! Google: Marijuana’s effect on the brain. Then click on “How does marijuana affect the brain? Serendip’s Exchange”. Very worth while reading.
Why would anyone want to mess up their short term memory and decrease their ability to learn, much less effect their nervous system? I wonder if some of the increase of autism and MS we are seeing is a direct effect of the parents having smoked and eaten a lot of marijauna in the 1960′s and 70′s. We have a big responsibility to our potential children to take care of our bodies and minds, something we don’t hear much when we are growing up. We pass on weakend genetic if we do drugs and eat junk.
If you want to screw up your body and brain wait until you have raised your children. Hopefully by then you won’t want to.
Just because something is “natural” doesn’t mean it is good for use. The organic farming industry used to use arsenic in sprays (probably still do). They could because it was organic.
Even the use of medicinal herbs should be considered carefully. They are strong medicine.
Let your food be your medicine, and even in that, don’t overindulge in any one area. I’m still working on this one.
If you need to excape, MEDITATE by quieting your mind and listening to God! It’s awesome! We are so loved. Once we know that, we can love others. Whala! Healing.
Sounds preachy? Oh well! These things work!
As an aside, just in case you think I am unsympathetic to those in pain and suffering, I am no stranger to pain and suffering. I’ve knocked on deaths door more times than I care to share, and at times even wished that I had gone through. I’ll spare you the details.
I am so thankful God put it in my heart and mind to be a seeker, and to the people who have lifted me up and shown me how simple and good life can be.
Keep it simple: meditate, eat raw and do yoga. Then share the love!
Evelin
11:54 am on February 10th, 2010
I agreee with Janet’s comment on salt. If you eat raw food, you need pristine salt! Not too much but a little every day helps the body’s wetting angle.
Kevin, please read David Favor’s essay on salt at radicalhealth.com
I agree with Kevin when he said that most people using pschoactive plants for ceremonial use are really just wanting an excuse to get high, alter their reality, or just escape their pain. Escape is escape. But I have compassion at the same time for those in need of escape, I used to do it too. Raw food helps alot with those feelings.
12:11 pm on February 10th, 2010
Great Post Kev!
I totally concur with your stance of herb being better for our society than alcohol. Of course, it can be abused. What is “scared use and not substance abuse?”
I think it is best for everyone to find what works for them and not judge your neighbor. I would like to see pot legalized and our gov. spend the drug war money in education and feeding kids healthy foods at school and preserving public lands.
12:16 pm on February 10th, 2010
After seeing a good person dying of cancer, his pain somewhat alleviated by medical marijuana till the State withdrew easy purchase, I care not about ‘abuse’, by doctors or patients.
Legalize it and peyote. We tolerate alcohol and recommend “a little wine for the stomach’s sake”, as St Paul put it, preferably a good red Merlot. We tolerate, and some overdose on, cacao and coffee and tea. Legal, dangerous to some, too much a hazard to all.
Those holier than that, meditate on the US war against Afghanistan’s people. Before the US invasion, the Taliban, praised and aided by the US for fighting the Soviets and the Kabul government, forbade the growing of opium poppy for heroin manufacture. After 2001, with your US armies in control, production resumed and the street price of heroin dropped. Another victory for ‘free’ enterprise? Now, with the Taliban again gaining power, they’ve learned to use opium production against the invaders. A triumph of freedom? Meditate on your own support for deadly drugs…
and let the sinless one drop the first bomb.
12:46 pm on February 10th, 2010
You’re not “controversial” – you’re refreshing. I think a joint is better any time than a pain pill.
1:10 pm on February 10th, 2010
The March 2008 Good Housekeeping had a little blurp about pot that said that “Pot today is dangerously strong. The average level of THC was less than 1% in 1970 but by 2006 it had risen to 7%. In addition, it says that pot damages lungs much faster than tobacco does. One joint can harm airways as much as 5 cigarettes do.”
Given the choice of alcohol dangers or pot dangers, I’d still rather people choose pot. But, as a holy man, Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach, once said to a congregent that he walked in on smoking pot, “Holy brother, if I thought that smoking pot would lead you to a closer relationship with G*d, I’d be all for it. But, it doesn’t work that way.”
George Harrison told the story that he showed up at Hait Ashbury with a vile of LSD to join the crowds in their “spiritual pursuits”. When he got there, he realized that people were there just to get stoned and not reach nirvana. He broke the vile then and their and said that he didn’t do drugs again.
1:12 pm on February 10th, 2010
Kevin, I enjoy your vidis very much. I, like most Americans, believe that marijuana should be legalized. It would be regulated and taxed, possibly helping to reduce the deficit–not as much as stopping all of the stupid wars we are in, though. As someone who found herself addicted to “medications” prescribed by her doctor, I am somewhat amused by the fear of marijuana. It’s like “Reefer Madness.” The legalized, manmade drugs are far more dangerous than a little reefer. Get yourself a vaporizer. That’s healthy. No, I do not smoke. Having gotten off “medications,” I don’t intend to start with any other form of drug. But for those who do mj, for medicinal, spiritual or recreational reasons, power to them.
–jj
p.s. Kev, I tried to answer one of your emails, which stated: “Just hit reply.” Well, I got the email back with a message that it would not be read and to go to your homepage and send a comment. Great….except, the image that I’m supposed to type in never shows up on the screen–only a small “x” with “img” in a rectangle.
1:23 pm on February 10th, 2010
Great show! Love reading the posts.
LIke anything else that Kevin talks about, sea salt/agave, etc, do your own research….
There is a great documentary on this called “The Union, The Business of Getting High” Check it out. It is one of the better ones. This should shed some light on the subject…. I learned a lot.
Did you know that 10% of Lipton Tea Bags are made of Hemp? Not to get you high, but so it doesnt break down in the water… I never knew.
There is some interesting info regarding the legalization of MJ….and Hemp. It is more complicated than I ever knew.
Not sure I want the gov growin my greens…
1:28 pm on February 10th, 2010
so, you have personally seen alcohol destroy families and marriages? Well, so have I…my own. However, if my ex smoked as much marijuana as he drank, we still would have ended up in the same place. I hear you comparing a recreational “doper” with a regular drinker. Doesn’t compute as far as I see it.
If alcohol, marijuana, etc is a MIND ALTERING DRUG, then that’s exactly what it is. Which one is better…well, just as you said with the himilayan salt. Although better, the goal is to get off of salt entirely, and I have yet to understand why some raw foodie tells me they feel bliss by drinking ie. a green smoothie, but then goes out an lights up a joint. Have another smoothie for gawd sake!
As for those that need it for pain..we live in such a toxic society in thought and action, I can understand why people seem to think they need it to numb their pain. If you need a boat to get to the other side, then fine. But, when you get to the other side, ya gotta get out of the boat!
Spirtuality, sure, but, what, once/twice a year? That does not encompass a Friday night with a bunch of friends in a condo!
1:29 pm on February 10th, 2010
I agree that alcohol is much worse than marijuana, but I’m still of the opinion that this statement is used as an excuse far too often for people to recreationally use it and often abuse it. Just because something “isn’t as bad” as something else, doesn’t mean it’s all that good for you. I believe for those with serious illnesses, they should have the option of legal, prescribed medicinal marijuana, but it should not be readily available for the general public.
I know someone in my life who smoked it and I could always tell, due to the odor that came from his lungs when he breathed afterwards (several minutes-hours later); I also know because of his behavior, his lack of seriousness, his laziness, his procrastination, his restlessness, and snoring during sleep etc.. He had been doing it with friends once in awhile for at least 5 years prior to knowing me, and claimed it was too hard to quit – it was very addictive he said. I’ve talked to many other people who have said they smoked it, but quit for various reasons without reoccurrence/addiction problems. Is it really that hard to quit? I find it hard to believe, but he did have a lapse where he ended up doing it every day for over a week and would sneak off to smoke by himself behind dumpsters or in washrooms and would hide that fact until he was caught.
Does this really sound like something that is beneficial? In this case, it wasn’t even a social issue, he was doing it alone with a negative impact on our relationship. There are a lot of other ways to reduce stress in one’s life that are much healthier, and many other ways to celebrate or reward one’s self for milestones in life.
It may not do what alcohol does with serious impairment, violence and hangovers, but I’ve known enough pot smokers to know that it slows them down and makes them lazy, often having performance issues at work etc. I think any “addiction” of marijuana is in the mind: they want to do it because of how they feel while smoking, or it’s just so readily available when they’re with friends who already do it – the temptation is there.
Personally, I would say it can put a strain on relationships dealing with an M smoker if you don’t smoke and they do. I could support someone with an illness going through a difficult time, but I have a hard time tolerating or accepting someone just smoking it up because they feel like it or want the buzz.
Thanks
1:41 pm on February 10th, 2010
Interesting take Arrishannah on how smoking marijuana affects the chakras! I wonder if the chakras are still blocked if consumed other than smoking?
Lorna, you brought up an interesting point, “We need to get to the root of the need to self medicate.” It does seem that most users of psychoactive substances use it as an escape, regardless if the substance is natural or not.
And of course we shouldn’t deny the affect marijuana has on short term memory and delay in learn. Thanks for mentioning it Evelin.
But again, are these factors strictly related to smoking? I’m hoping to find out how eating medicinal plants/herbs raw differs from smoking them… and if there’s any nutritional benefits. Anyone?
1:44 pm on February 10th, 2010
I was always taught hundreds of years ago that smoking one joint was like smoking three packs of cigarettes. If that’s still the case, that’s an awful lot of abuse your lungs are taking. That said though, I totally would vote for it for people who are in pain from cancer. I watched my mom and dad both die from cancer and if there was some weed available, I would have encouraged them to smoke it. My dad probably would have, but I’m not sure about my mom.
1:56 pm on February 10th, 2010
my 5 year plan to end all problems with illeagal drugs(and no i’m not a communist)there are so many prolems with drug abuse(street or legal)that in my opinion,i dont think any of the clergy people or average people,understand this epidemic,i call it a chain reaction of events and what i mean by that is the 100s of innocent people that get hurt and or killed by this epidemic.you will never stop this for alot of reasons,but as anything money is usually the root of the problem.nothing as worked(from presidents to politians) and will never work unless there is a change in the constution,in my opinion we need a peaceful revoulution(i know,yea right)my 5 yr plan that would stop this epidemic.in all major cities build these complexes that have alot of rooms,and give them whatever drug they want and let them do the drug in a room and lock the door for so many hours(all rooms would have cameras)and then let them out.dont laugh at me,think about it!!!! do you realize how much crime that would stop.1.no more drug dealers2.after a couple yrs the abusers would get tierd of being a junkie.i call this chain reaction because,what would happen(chain reaction)if the drug dealers didnt have any drugs to sell?they might cry for awhile but they would end up getting a real job and taking care of there life and how many people would they change by changing there life for the better,you see what i mean by chain reaction.hey alot of people laughed at the smartest man in the world for his therorys and look what he did for the world.as far as weed the only thing it would be good for is for people who cant eat or have a disorder in eating,cause it will make you eat lol.
1:56 pm on February 10th, 2010
To Ella Jan Lamkin Fausz on ‘Question off the topic”
When I started on a raw food diet (I learned at Hippocrates Health Institute)I also had a low thyroid and was on synthroid. After many months of a raw food diet that included sea weeds, sprouting, fresh wheat grass juice, two green juices/day, spirulina,and super blue green algae, I still was not able to get off synthroid.
I was having some pain problems from injuries; my doctor suggested yoga. I learned in yoga that through focused meditation, bringing healing light to my thyroid and doing asanas, including ones for the thyroid, that I could wean myself from synthroid. I did this under my doctors supervision. It took about three months.
I was only on synthroid for two years. I don’t know how this would work for others.
Also there is an accupressor point on your ear for the thyroid. Wnen you pinch it it will hurt if your thyroid is out of balance. pinch it regularly to stimulate the thyroid.
If these things don’t work there is a lot of other non pharma directions you can take Keep seeking
Good luck!
Evelin
2:15 pm on February 10th, 2010
I was re-thinking the lo-o-ong comment I made earlier and the suggestion to check out “How marijauna effects the brain”. The effects that were pointed out, ie. short term memory loss, lact of motivation, etc. are the same things that can come about from chronic stress, watching too much TV, eating certain foods (for me that would be modified food starch), and a host of other things.
Although I still think marijuana can be a gateway drug, when used in high doses, I think many things can be gateways to people looking for a quick escape, or have a tendency to addiction. I’m sure we all make both conscious and mindless choices on a daily basis that effect our brain or body chemistry adversely; I know I still do. My drug of choice is food and sometime television.
Evelin
2:46 pm on February 10th, 2010
In therapeutic use of psychotropic drugs (e.g pot, psilocybe mushrooms) the main considerations are setting & intent. Nature provides a real therapeutic setting, compared to the sterile, monochromatic boxes that are hospitals, in which cold, clinical, invasive, even combative methods are used, suppressing symptoms, fighting disease, rather than listening to what the symptoms express, heeding & restoring harmonic balance from there. For me the ideal healing setting is a forest.
In traditional use by natives their use was sacramental, so then periodic & even seldom. They would receive vision or what & however they received from the drug, then put the drug down & pursue their broadened vision in their daily life. Yes, this was used plainly to move forward as well as to go back & pick up the pieces (for remedial purposes).
Not that some recreational use doesn’t broaden one’s horizons. But we tend to keep on using past the point of real usefulness. For those with any length of experience, notice how different the effects are even somewhat later in life from how it was back when you started. oh, gotta go>>>>>>
2:56 pm on February 10th, 2010
I think your chemistry hooks up with a certain drug if you have the addictive type personality. Kevin, for you it was alcohol, but that doesn’t mean alcohol is more addictive, your body chemistry just preferred that drug. For me, it’s sugar. I can drink alcohol and then not drink it again for years but if I have a cookie, I want a whole bag. I’ve seen people totally change personalities when they start smoking pot, they are not themselves and yes, it does break up relationships, marriages just like alcohol. It is just as unhealthly, I think the lungs would agree with me.
3:19 pm on February 10th, 2010
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WeYsTmIzjkw
Sums it up
3:20 pm on February 10th, 2010
@evelin hey i’m no doctor,this is simply another suggestion,thats cool your all raw with the wheatgras and all the other stuff,but if your still having problems,your throid condition you might want to have them check for a magnesium def.alot of doctors diagnose this problem to either thyroid or a calcium problem.does’nt hurt to get it checked out.
3:32 pm on February 10th, 2010
high times(not that i read it lol)interviewed the smartest(iq wise) man in the world(it was a couple yrs ago,any how he smokes weed and how he thinks it makes him smarter,as the saying goes”god made grass,and man made booze who do you trust”?
4:13 pm on February 10th, 2010
I’m really agenst marijauna after what I went throught, when my daughter was born. The docter wanted to know if I did drugs, but it wasn’t me. Her father that smoked it and it was the second hand smoke that had an afect on me and my unborn daughter. When she was born she was not breathing and they had to start her heart. You need to think of the other people, when you smoke marijauna because the second had smoke is just as bad as second hand cigaret smoke. The people you smoke it around can get a contact heigh and that is not good. I’ve been around peoplein my appartment smoking marijauna and it’s not plesent. When you drink alcohol it will afect the person drinking it, but not others because they don’t have to breather the poison like you do with cigarets and marijauna. you need to think about the air we all breath.
Susan
4:29 pm on February 10th, 2010
Agreed on the alcohol vs. pot question – much less damage, generally. However – I have seen spiritual death through too much marijuana use, too. Destroyed attitude, focus on use of drug to exclusion of all else, etc. Though not the kind of drunk driving, physical abuse, gun-pulling crazy that happens on booze benders.
It always amazes me that less than 100 years ago, our country AMENDED THE US CONSTITUTION to prohibit booze. Someone, somewhere – or lots of someones – understood the toll this terrible substance had on society and families. I’m not saying outlawing it helped. AA was born around a similar time. Anyway, somehow, we have totally let this collective memory slide because – what? Life is too painful and must be medicated? I agree overall that it is a spiritual/psychic/emotional question that is better addressed through a spiritual plan of action. Overall, our society doesn’t cotton much to spiritual plans of actions! Or, they do, but only for “real alcoholics.” That guy over there, wow, good for him. But hand me my beer!
4:30 pm on February 10th, 2010
You don’t have to smoke it if there are health issues. You could get tinctures, extracts or concoction of the weed.
5:13 pm on February 10th, 2010
30 yrs. ago my dad told the story about how his best buddy cured his baby daughter of Arthritis by using pure marijuana plant. I,m for legalizing it mostly for cure. I agree with t j allen, if legal, cartel would not exist. I have witness the bad things they do.
5:15 pm on February 10th, 2010
From my personal experience I found that marijuana can be both positive and negative. There are times it can make me very spiritual and creative in my artistic practices and there are other times it can do the exact opposite: ie. it will make me lazy, hungry and tired. I think it is all the mind set you have before you partake that will affect the outcome. I have also found marijuana to make me feel very unsettled and border line paranoia. I once had a shaking fit for about an hour and my body was very cold after smoking a small amount. Alcohol has never done anything like this to me. I do feel that marijuana is much easier on the body but I believe it can be just as damaging as alcohol. It is addictive despite what many people think and I strongly believe if it is to be smoked at all it should be done in moderation. I have seen many close people to me start their day with marijuana and smoke all throughout the day. What then becomes their reality? It got to the point where they had to smoke some pot to enjoy ANYTHING aside from sleeping. There are definitely pros and cons to the herb.
5:46 pm on February 10th, 2010
From a Neuroscientist” view Alcohol and Marijuana do the same damage to the brain (a lot) and they both cause impaired senses (including driving).
7:12 pm on February 10th, 2010
If you “use” marijuana as a sacrament, you won’t have addiction, your personality will bloom, not suffer, your motivation madness will turn to creative flow. If you abuse it by smoking it all the time instead of as a ritual, you will lose the essence of aliveness this precious human life bestows.
8:01 pm on February 10th, 2010
Marijuana is ABSOLUTELY better than alcohol.. Great show. Marijuana is just a plant in its natural form for human use! It’s definitely a great medicine!!
8:05 pm on February 10th, 2010
Wake up people, Do you know that the cannabis plant is an herb. It has been used for 10,000 years as medicine. As a master herbalist I have seen first hand how it has tremendously helped with aids, MS, depression, hot flashes, cancer, yes cancer. Have you seen the documentary Run from the Cure??? It is a plant that comes from a seed that GOD has provided for us. I know that for you people that have never needed it, have no idea of its medicinal properties. It’s called ignorance. Learn more about something before you condem it.Leagalize it so the gov can make money too. That’s what its all about , the money.
8:07 pm on February 10th, 2010
PS It doesnt have to be smoked to get benefits from it. Eating is one of them. There are many ways to add it to raw food.
8:10 pm on February 10th, 2010
George Washiington grew it on the White House lawn!!!
8:40 pm on February 10th, 2010
I believe medical marijauna SHOULD be legal. I support the total legalization of marijauna in general. Not because I’m a hippy stoner. Because alcohol and tobacco SHOULD be banned as they are far, far more destructive in every way. It is total insanity that marijauna is illegal and that it is often reffered to as a “drug”. It’s a plant. A flower. A medicinal herb. I beleive it is currently illegal because it makes you think for yourself and also makes the government alot of money by putting people and jail and get politicians elected. Not to mention it could replace a slew of pharmacueticals. I do agree that lots of people take advantage of the medical marijauna system. But I would never want to buy pot from the government. Who know what they would put in it or how they would genetically modify the plants.
I whole heartedly believe in the use of entheogens as a valid way of expanding your mind and learning more about the nature of conciuosness. I personally have only used them in my past recreationally. But if given the oppurtunity I would welcome it as a gift. Like you said many, many ancient cultures have used sacred plants and such. I don’t think any plant should be illegal. EVER. I think that the raw food diet is in itself VERY spiritual and puts you in a sense of connectedness all on its own. I can understand why raw foodist would genuinely want to use the plants to expand their experiences.
There’s my 2 cents.
10:20 pm on February 10th, 2010
I live in Australia – have suffered with severe chronic pain for 30+ years – I have been prescribed probably EVERY narcotic medication at some point – not much relief at all.
If I indulge in some dope ( illegal) I get around 90% relief and can actually get some sleep!! My doctor has said he would prescibe it if he could – so at least some of the medical community think it is a worthwhile painkiller. I would rather the side effects of THC than morphine, oxy-codone,fantanyl etc, etc.
Re Alcohol – there was a comment in an earlier post that where children grow up drinking wine with meals from a young age ( Italy, Greece), one does not hear of the ‘binge drinking’ that teenagers indulge in here. I agree – our state has had dreadful road carnage already this year – the majority young people, possibly alcohol affected. What a waste of young lives!! Don’t drink & drive – if you drink, do it in moderation.
10:52 pm on February 10th, 2010
Thanks Anne Marie H. for pointing out the obvious: It is an herb, a plant
NOT A DRUG!!!
Alcohol is a drug yet you always hear “Alcohol and drugs” nonsense!
Don’t fall for the hype Kev!
The plant is not bad but your relationship to it can be..just like anything really..nature or not.
May the truth set us all free!!
12:09 am on February 11th, 2010
What’s the point in drinking if you’re going to do it in moderation? The heroic dose has the potential of bringing you to enlightenment through hilarity and joy. I love to tie one on about twice a year. The liver suffers, but if it’s strong from eating raw foods it will rebound in no time. It’s a great way to open some new doors.
5:54 am on February 11th, 2010
DRUGS ARE ALL TOXIC. DID YOU KNOW MARIJUANA RAISES THE HEART BEAT BY AS MUCH AS FIFTY BEATS PER MINUTE?
IF YOU SMOKE IT, IT HAS MORE TAR THAN TOBACCO AND JUST AS MUCH CARBON MONOXIDE. IF YOU HAVE TO TAKE IT, JUICE IT RAW AND ORGANIC, BUT WHY THE PAIN IN THE FIRST PLACE? 12 YEARS ON RAW SHOULD SORT ANYTHING OUT!
IF YOU MEDITATE YOU DON’T NEED DRUGS, IF GOD COULD BE FOUND BY TAKING DUGS WE WOLD ALL BE ENLIGHTENED.
9:00 am on February 11th, 2010
There was an interesting BBC documentary about Marijuana a while back. One thing they did was to carry out a driving test, once under the influence of alcohol and once under the influence of marijuana. Using alcohol the driver became reckless, fast and greatly overestimated their driving ability. Using marijuana they became excessively cautious – breaking too soon, driving very slowly etc. Both were unsafe for driving, but as a non marijuana smoker, I would rather deal with another driver on the road under the influence of marijuana than alcohol.
10:00 am on February 11th, 2010
Alcohol is the only item consumed that can be consumed in which the individual doesn’t get high. Millions of people will have a glass of wine or two and not get drunk or be high. Marijuana doesn’t have that effect. There are a lot of carcinogens in marijuana. Working in the correction systems, majority of drug offenders and people who are not functioning we
ll in society are using pot and it was their ‘gateway’ drug. Don’t fool yourself into thinking that many car accidents are not due to those driving high. Someone who is slow and mellow doesn’t react well. Majority of pot users cause harm to their brain which results in slow thought and loss of motivation over time. Those with family history of schizophrenia are more likely to get the same mental illness with use of pot, http://www.schizophrenia.com/prevention/streetdrugs.html, and the Netherlands are now realizing how addicting pot is and their society is suffering from people who cannot function and contribute.
Americans are too attached to wanting to be happy all the time and not realizing that all emotions are part of the human experience.
10:01 am on February 11th, 2010
The only reason people have any negative views on cannabis is because of the successful propoganda campaign that the gov’t spread, beginning in the early 1900′s, such as Refer Madness, etc. Prior to that it was grown everywhere and used for a multitude of reasons, medicinally and otherwise. The supposed War on Drugs in a hoax; it’s all about money and nothing else. Do some research.
10:21 am on February 11th, 2010
I think it is the same as with any substance that if you have an addictive personality, it is very likely that you will abuse marijuana. Often people who smoke ‘weed’ also drink alcohol.
There has been also many very brutal acts of violence recorded by heavy marijuana smokers.
I think it is like with many other things like chocolate, cafeine etc., those things are not essential in our life, we don’t need them.
And what you said about using marijuana for treating pain…there are so many other ways and techniques to treat pain that don’t have same possible side effects than marijuana.
I have seen many people starting off just smoing marijuana, telling how amazing it is and being completely against alcohol and other drugs (since they don’t perceive it as drug but something nature has provided them) and ending up first smoking it more and more and then laying off other things that made them feel good (sports, friends ) getting extremely lazy and loosing interest in many things they used to care. Smoking is often also a first step to harder drugs, almost 100 % addicts have first smoked ‘weed’ before getting into heavier drugs later…
I have seen people getting into a ‘psychosis’ when smoking, people ending up in mental institutions…
There are so many other things in nature that are good and healing for us, why put so much emphasis on this one thing???
Hemp is great for fabrics and amazing food but we DON’T need to smoke it.
10:38 am on February 11th, 2010
There’s absolutely no reason that a plant should be made illegal. What people do with said plant is up to the individual.
We each have a responsibility to learn what works best for our own minds and bodies. We also have to find our own limits. Altering consciousness through plants has a long history among the world’s indigenous populations, and lumping all of these practices together under the term “drugs” and dismissing them as such is terribly narrow minded. Plants have a lot of wisdom to share with us sensorily-limited humans. It’s up to each person to find what speaks to her and cultivate a responsible relationship.
It’s true that some people have a history of addiction and can’t approach any mind-altering substance without losing control. Addiction is a terrible and scary thing, but it’s not the fault of the plant. We don’t need society to police what we can and cannot use. We need open dialogue on the subject so that people can make educated decisions that lead to consciousness elevation rather than self-harm. It’s not regulations that keep society healthy, it’s honest, open discourse.
10:04 pm on February 11th, 2010
Fruit from the trees has had a purpose for mannkind.
Grain has had a special purpose for mankind.
Cannabis Sativa has a special purpose for mankind.
For God giveth the grass for the cattle and the herb for the service of man. ~Holy Bible
12:58 am on February 12th, 2010
I have ill feelings on marijuana and alcohol, they both are acidic and does ferment the brain.
These drugs do not allow the blood cells to do their work. Maintaining the Ph of the body has it’s benefits, pain killing is the matter of the foods you eat and how ph they are. corhn’s disease can be beat will a good ph diet also salts such as phsalts can make a big difference
in your ph makup. Acidic foods are protons which is harmful to the body. ph foods are electrons which create energy, creates life for the cells (which protons do the opposite, they cause the death of cells, marijuana and alcohol are protons) create peace of mind!
Ricki
Promote2life@yahoo.com
1:13 pm on February 12th, 2010
God made (created) the cannabis seed, and said “It Is Good” (See Genesis 1:11-12)
The healing power of herbs throughout history is proven beyond question…
Cannabis is a herb not a drug .. Government propaganda has succeeded in demonizing it, because it’s healing properties seriously cut into the drug companies/ big pharma profits, and because it is a naturally growing plant that is found in every country of the world, it cannot have a patent placed on it, so the drug companies and government cannot control it, so the only solution was to demonize it and make it illegal via a huge campaign of misinformation and outright lies.
Those who find smoking offensive, should realize that some of the most effective ways to use of this “God Given Herb” are through cooking, baking, extracting the oil etc. You don’t have to smoke it to benefit from its amazing properties.
If God created it, and declared it good… who are we to say that God made a mistake…!
If you want to know the truth, do some serious research.. don’t listen to the lies being told by the media, drug companies and government system.
1:50 am on February 13th, 2010
wowie! lots of wise compassionate informed folks, and lots of propagandized dare graduates as well. i am clearly for total legalization, obviously. to demonize the most profoundly beneficial plant energy to ever grace us or our planet is certainly ignorant and even violent. yes really, the most beneficial. show me one other energy whose many varieties give us some of the best food on the planet, best natural fibers on the planet, best living fuel on the planet, most non-toxic healing medicine on the planet, and as if all that was not enough, it is also a profound teacher and sharer of peace and compassion for ALL life. many years ago, i had an experience with this plant that forever changed my life (and the health of life on earth). i had not ingested this herb for over four years when this occurred, and one reason i had stopped was because of the extreme insights i was getting when i used it, and they were too extreme for me at that time, so i walked away. there is NO physical addiction, ever. anyone can be addicted to anything psychologically but that is not the plant’s doing. but this night, in october of 1986, a friend came to visit, and brought some, and i chose to ingest it. we had planned to make a bunch of different fried chicken recipes that night. so i ingested this insightful herb, and then went to rinse off the chicken. and the first one had a broken leg, and then the second one did, and then the third. by this time i was screaming, horrified. i had cooked chicken countless times, but this time something got through. something was horribly wrong here. these critters were being horribly abused. they were not barnyard animals having a good life, pecking around in the dirt, having their head chopped off quickly and compassionately after a good life. this was in 1986, and not many, including me, knew yet about factory farming, but the chickens knew, and that night, with the helpful insight of this holy sacred gift from great spirit, i woke up and became aware. the incident did not prompt me to again begin ingesting the herb. what it did do was prompt me to learn about nutrition, because i choose to refuse to support violence. i read dr john mcdougall’s book “the mcdougall plan”, discovered that animal products are actually deadly toxic to us, so as my new year’s resolution i stopped eating them. yippee! so many animals saved! in a cannabis based, peace-oriented world, we could turn our prisons into healing centers, we would have a lot more smiles on our faces, and laughter in our hearts, compassion in our lives, and so much more. everyone could thrive, even those currently thriving on the abominations of war. imagine a peace oriented world. cannabis can be the catalyst that brings us there. thanks for bringing this topic up, kevin. i appreciate you and annmarie –and johnny five in the background there- very much. peace to you and to ALL life. aho
10:30 am on February 13th, 2010
Hey Kev,
Could you please do me a favor? Could you remind people to chill out a little bit and be nice? Some people can be really mean, and I don’t think its called for on this board.
Its one thing to say this is my opinion, this is how I feel, and this is why. It is quite another to tackle someone with your words. This board to supposed to be about health, and helping one another out, not bashing another due to different beliefs.
Look if you think dancing naked while wearing a jester’s hat makes you a healthier person so be it, I would surely disagree with you, but I wouldn’t punch you out because of it. Its ok to disagree, its ok to think something is wrong, but its not ok to anihilate. Does that make sense?
Thanks Kev and Annmare for all you do.
3:11 pm on February 14th, 2010
Great Show!
I definitely agree that marijuana is sooo much better than alcohol. alcohol is the devil hahaa.
anyways i had a question about tea
What are your favorite types of tea/healthiest?
& do you boil your water & then let your tea cool to drink it. or do you warm the water below 110 degrees?
& for the person who asked if tea destroys enzymes from what you already ate, i usually drink tea on an empty stomach first thing in the morning or at night. C:
7:35 pm on February 15th, 2010
The reason Cannabis has remained illegal is that it makes you question. You are put into a frame of mind that makes you examine your life and the world you live in. In a sense you really are seeing the world in a new and beautiful way; for what it is and what really matters. And this is not something that fades away after the effects wear off. Forever you will see the world differently and it truly is a spiritual awakening for the open minded responsible person. What could be worse for the pharmaceutical giants and it’s partner modern medicine, than the masses of its patients deciding that they would rather have marijuana than these horrible chemicals for there ailments? It disturbs me to use the word medicine in the same sentence as the word pharmaceutical, but that is the world we live in. Peace to you all.
2:31 pm on February 17th, 2010
HI Kevin & Ann Marie-
I completely agree with you about the uses of Medical Marijuana and the detriments of alcohol. Why shouldn’t people have the option to choose this over some pharmaceutical of unknown makeup…. Why?? Politics!! That’s why. It boggles my mind to think of the history of this plant and that the reasons it was originally banned are still enforcing negative connotations on it to this day. Fortunately we are starting to wake up!
3:05 pm on February 17th, 2010
I totally agree that alcohol is a far worse drug than marijuana – thank you for having the guts to put that out there Kevin!
The Union: The Business Behind Getting High is a great documentary:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3HLzmH9VB6A&feature=related
2:56 pm on February 24th, 2010
Great show today! If people use marijuana/mushrooms/whatever pyschoactive fine…if they don’t fine. I don’t really care.
5:27 pm on March 4th, 2010
i think that mj should be open to the public cuse everyone uses it anyway and people wont get introuble for it. if people abuse it then it should be taken away
3:59 pm on March 16th, 2010
What are the effects of marijuana on the immune system?
First: college roommate was healthy considering SAD etc. but came down with pneumonia after she started smoking pot.
Second: My youngest brother was very sick as a baby with croup, bronchitis, and pneumonia. After receiving heavy vibrator treatments to his back when he was about 2 years old, he didn’t have any more trouble with it. Until he started smoking pot in high school. Back to bronchitis and pneumonia.
Maybe it was just coincidence, but we should be most concerned with building our health. Just not sure this wouldn’t be more of a hindrance than a help on that score.