This series of Wana Bits articles explore the science behind ingredients in the popular edible products – Yuzu Zone Bits – THC 5mg – Ginseng – Reishi – Turmeric

Cannabis is part of a revolution, often referred to as the 4th industrial revolution or industry 4.0, which has at its center, a food revolution. This movement is the result of the incorporation of functional food and beneficial ingredients into consumer products. Research has shown that diet plays an important role in nutrition, where the concept of functional foods is not only necessary for living, but also contributes to mental and physical well-being. This type of food-thinking has gained momentum since 2015, and continues to impact which foodstuff is produced, stored, transported, consumed, perceived – leading to increased desires for new food trends and combinations.

The emerging technology breakthroughs of Industry 4.0 have paved the way for a new  generation of food products and production methods. The theory goes something like this:  incorporating good ingredients can perhaps tip the scales in disease prevention or longer lasting health in our favor. Basically, how you eat is associated with the prevention or reduction of multiple risk factors. Let’s take a small bite of this revolution, and chew on the science around Yuzu Zone Bits. This product is of interest because the ingredients include reishi mushroom, ginseng, turmeric, and of course 5mgs of THC. These four ingredients have been the subject of many research studies and may offer a number of proposed health benefits.

 First of all – Why combine any foodstuff with THC? Well, THC is a lousy drug when it is all alone, and it needs help from terpenes and other compounds. Every clinical study that has compared a cannabis extract to isolated THC has shown greater efficacy with THC as part of an extract – in other words, with other functional ingredients. The manufacturer of Yuzu bits describe the product as  “meant to stimulate mindfulness” and “the anti-procrastination edible.” 

Let’s take a look at some of the science behind these statements and what the other ingredients might do when consumed or added with THC.

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)

Reish mushroom,  known as the “mushroom of immortality” in Eastern medicine traditions, comes in a range of colors including reddish-brown,black, green, yellow, and even blue. In modern scientific studies it is explored for its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This mushroom is associated with relaxing effects, often considered an adaptogen. Reishi is a rarity in the wild but cultivators have made it available on markets today by helping it grow on hardwood. 

Ginseng (Panax ginseng)

Ginseng is a prestigious ancient plant medicine, whose perceived value in medicine dates back over 5,000 years.  In 1983 and 2013, ginseng was taken into space by astronauts to conduct experiments regarding the effects of space on its growth and medicinal properties. The active compounds in ginseng are called ginsenosides. These have been shown to have various therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer effects. Notably, ginseng is associated with impacting energy levels and fatigue, and is considered to be an adaptogen. There is evidence suggesting that ginseng can improve cognitive function, mood, and may also help in reducing stress, which can be important whether you are on earth or in a space station.

 

Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Much like reishi and ginseng, turmeric has a colorful history of being used as a spice, a medicine, and as a natural dye product. Its vibrant yellow color is used in fabrics and food. In Ayurveda, turmeric is used for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties. It also has a history of use in various religious ceremonies in India. The primary active compound in turmeric is curcumin, which is responsible for most of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

THC + Turmeric + Ginseng + Reishi

These ingredients may enhance and inhibit different aspects of THC. For example, ginseng ingredients may counteract sedation that THC is known to cause. Afterall THC and related compounds are reported to be a sleep aid, and a little ginseng may add some pep to this product. We can speculate that reishi could be having relaxing, stress relieving, and pain-relieving/anti-inflammatory effects, which would enhance the aspects of THC in these areas. And some people report feeling anxious from THC, and perhaps the intention of including reishi is to smooth out the experience by counteracting any anxious effects. And what about turmeric? Well, the product has a bright yellow color – so this is perhaps the main indication of its use in this product, perhaps second to its anti-inflammatory effects.

Based on published research, we can rationalize that these functional food ingredients may be intended to counteract sedation and anxiety associated with THC, while enhancing mood-altering and anti-inflammatory properties. There is no direct evidence that this combination will significantly increase your “mindfulness”, but you can use this free app/website to anonymously report your experience or effects for any cannabis and hemp products. You may also reach out to Jahan Marcu, PhD if you are interested in participating in research studies. 

While there may be potential benefits in combining reishi extract, THC, and ginseng – any risks and interactions should be carefully considered (see below). It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially when it involves substances like THC and other active ingredients.

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Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for medical diagnosis or treatment recommendations.

Here is a list of things to share with your doctor, regarding potential issues with any THC product:

• Drug Interactions: These substances can interact with various medications, potentially leading to adverse effects. THC, in particular, can affect the metabolism of other drugs.
• Psychological Effects: THC can induce psychological effects such as anxiety or paranoia, especially in sensitive individuals or in higher doses.
• Liver Health: Both reishi mushroom and THC have been linked to potential impacts on liver health. Combining them could increase the risk of liver toxicity.
• Overstimulation: The stimulating effects of ginseng may counteract the relaxing effects of THC, leading to a state of confusion or discomfort.
• Unpredictable Responses: Individual responses to herbal supplements and THC can vary greatly, making the combined effect unpredictable.
• Regulatory Issues: The legal status of THC varies by region, which might limit the feasibility of using these substances together.