The EVOLUTION Magazine May 2026 | Page 19

to be an allergic reaction to cannabis is, in reality, a toxic reaction to harmful chemicals or contaminants in or on cannabis products. Any cannabis products sold in Missouri dispensaries are supposed to be safe. Cannabis product producers are required to have their products lab-tested by state-licensed labs that test for harmful contaminants, such as mycotoxins from mold and mildew, as well as harmful contaminants like chemical pesticides and fungicides. However, labs can’ t test for everything, nor are testing protocols and methodologies faultless.

This is all to say, don’ t immediately jump to the conclusion that if you have what appears to be an allergic reaction to cannabis, that you are allergic to cannabis. It could be something that found its way into that specific cannabis product. Try going to a different dispensary and getting something else. Legitimate cannabis allergies are rare.

More Isn’ t Better

More and more asthma specialists are recognizing the benefits of cannabis, not just for respiratory relief, but for stress and anxiety relief, which often triggers asthmatic events. Unfortunately, what asthma clinicians also see is an undue portion of asthmatics consuming cannabis in excess. Smoking cannabis in excess is especially problematic for asthmatics. Clinicians see patients overconsuming not so much to relieve asthma but to relieve the stress and anxiety that often trigger asthma attacks. Over time, lungs can accumulate excessive smoking particulates, and the cannabis, which once benefited asthma, now makes it worse.

Thankfully, it takes very little cannabis to be effective, not just for asthma but also for stress and anxiety. Asthma studies conducted as far back as the mid-70s used as low as 2 % THC and saw fast and effective results. 10 But don’ t look to cannabis as the be-all end-all. Determine those things that trigger your asthmatic events, such as stress, environmental toxins, allergens, etc., and do something about those first. Install one or more HEPA filters in your home and office. Wash sheets and towels often, and in hot water. Keep your house clean and mold-free. Be aware of the emotional component to asthmatic events. Paramedics, nurses, and physicians report that as many as 75 % of asthmatic ER patients can be“ talked down” and fully recover without any drug intervention. What they know to do in the hospital, you can do at home. When you feel an event coming on, relax. Breathe deeply( as best you can) and slowly. Practice daily meditation. Doing these things can prove immensely helpful in avoiding asthmatic events.

Peter Kershaw is a medical cannabis consultant. Contact him at pkershaw. email @ gmail. com As with all writers within these pages, if you’ ve benefited from Peter’ s articles, please let him and all writers know. They appreciate your thoughts.

Notice: The information contained herein is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, but rather a sharing of knowledge and information based on research, experience and the opinion of the writer. The content is for general informational purposes only. As always, check with your doctor first.

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