The American Herbalists Guild - Herbal Study Hall

THESE WEBINARS WERE RECORDED IN JUNE/JULY 2018.

Dive into this 4-session intensive series with Jessica Baker, LAc, RH (AHG) as we explore cannabis and its many healing actions and attributes.

The breakdown of topics for this webinar series includes:

Session One: The Endogenous Cannabinoid System
 In the first of four webinars, we will discuss the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) and its role in maintaining homeostasis in the body. The ECS is a network of neuro-modulation receptors within our brains, immune systems, and other parts of the body. It is a hemostatic regulatory system essential for key processes like pain, appetite, memory, and mood and pain regulation. The ECS also plays a role in regulating mitochondrial activity and neurogenesis. We will explore how the ECS interacts with other systems of the body and how herbalists can work with cannabis and other herbs to encourage optimum physiologic function.

Session Two: Phytocannabinoids: Beyond THC
 Phytocannabinoids such as THC (delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD (cannabidiol), CBG (cannabigerol), and CBN (cannabinol) are found in varying amounts in all cannabis plants. High THC chemovars psychoactive properties are a result of prohibition but research also shows many health benefits of THC, such as being an anti-emetic and anti-inflammatory. Hemp is non-psychoactive and contains higher amounts of the phytocannabinoid CBD. Research on CBD shows it to be anti-convulsant, analgesic, and cytotoxic against breast cancer cells. In this webinar we will discuss the therapeutic and modulating effects of CBD and THC, as well as briefly review lesser known phytocannabinoids.

Session Three: The Role of Terpenes in Cannabis
 While terpenes are gaining popularity because of the rise in media coverage on medical and recreational cannabis use, terpenes have already been extensively studied for their aromatic and medicinal properties. A constituent like linalool is present in cannabis but is also found in high amounts in lavender, and a multitude of other aromatic plants. This webinar will discuss cannabinoids the most common terpenes found in cannabis, conifers, lavender, frankincense, and other aromatic plants. We will explore the synergy of phytocannabinoids and terpenes and reveal how aroma affects our limbic, endocrine, and endocannabinoid systems.

Session Four: Cannabis Application: Inhalation, Ingestion, or Topical Use
 In the last webinar we will discuss different ways to use cannabis as medicine. For some disorders inhalation (smoking, vaping, or aromatherapy) may be the most appropriate, for others ingesting edibles or applying topically will be of most benefit. We will discuss the pros and cons of each application method and consider how sugar, propylene glycol, hexane derived terpenes, and other additives make it into cannabis products. We will review the cannabinoid receptors found in the endocannabinoid system and consider which phytocannabinoids, terpenes, and method of application are best used for conditions like nausea, seizures, pain, memory loss, and more.

Instructor Bio:
 Jessica Baker, LAc, RH (AHG) is an author, acupuncturist, herbalist, aromatherapist and educator. Her passion for all plants is reflected in her formulations, private practice and classes on aromatherapy, herbalism, and Chinese medicine. As a continuing education provider, she teaches at several herbal symposia and acupuncture conferences throughout the United States. Jessica is on the faculty of the Holistic Cannabis Academy and The Colorado School of Clinical Herbalism. Having many years experience as a clinician, Jessica is a master formulator, understanding the importance of plant synergy and energetics. This expertise has given her the opportunity to assist in the formulation of herbal products for large and small businesses.

Jessica has completed her first book, Plant Songs: Reflections on Herbal Medicine, through Balboa Press, where she won the contract through a Hay House Writer's Workshop.  Her essential oil blends under Baker Botanica launch in 2018.