Episodes

  • Cannabis Suppositories with Nurse Megan Mbengue
    Jan 10 2025
    On this episode of Bioactive, Dr. Riley Kirk sits down with Megan Mbengue, RN, MS. Megan is the owner of the cannabis company The Trusted Cannabis Nurse. She formulates custom products for patient specific needs as well as selling whole plant formulations through her website. The conversation discusses a recent study that Megan completed implementing the use of suppositories for pain relief during menstrual periods. Megan shares her study on the effectiveness of suppositories for period pain. The study involved 103 participants who completed two menstrual cycles, one without suppositories and one with suppositories. The results showed a significant decrease in pain scores, with an average drop of 55%. The suppositories were found to be most effective on days one and two of the menstrual cycle. Most participants used the suppositories during the day, and some also used them at night. Overall, the study demonstrated the potential of suppositories as a natural and effective option for managing period pain. The conversation covers the effectiveness of suppositories in reducing pain and improving quality of life. The data from the study shows that 94% of participants reported a reduction in pain and 85% reported an improvement in quality of life. Suppositories were found to be effective in relieving period cramps, nausea, headaches, migraines, and improving focus. The duration of the effects varied, with most participants reporting relief for 3-4 hours. The conversation also touches on the accessibility and legality issues surrounding suppositories and the need for more research on their use in conditions like cancer and pelvic pain. Nothing in this podcast is ever medical advice. Buy Megan’s products or learn more: https://www.trustedcannanurse.com/ Patreon members will have access to the entire study PDF including all figures and additional data. Join the patreon for as little as $1/month Patreon.com/Cannabichem Read about cannabis and orgasms: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9854104/ Follow Megan on social media: @TrustedCannaNurse keywords suppositories, menstrual pain, pain relief, study, effectiveness, period cycle, pain scores, suppositories, pain relief, quality of life, period cramps, nausea, headaches, migraines, focus, duration, accessibility, legality, cancer, pelvic pain takeaways Suppositories can be an effective option for managing period pain. The study showed a significant decrease in pain scores, with an average drop of 55%. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    52 mins
  • Top Cannabis Research From 2024 & What's New for Bioactive in 2025!
    Dec 27 2024
    🌱 In this episode of Bioactive, host Dr. Riley Kirk dives into her favorite cannabis research publications from 2024, sharing groundbreaking insights that advanced our understanding of this incredible plant. 📖 Exciting News! Dr. Kirk's upcoming book, Reefer Wellness: Understanding Cannabis as Medicine, is AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER now! 👉 Order Here ✨ In this episode: Highlights of key cannabis research papers from 2024. Sneak peek at upcoming Bioactive Season 2025 guests. New Year's cannabis resolutions for 2025. Insight into Reefer Wellness, a must-read for anyone passionate about cannabis medicine. 📚 Read the research papers mentioned in the episode: Cannabis Study in PMC Advancements in ScienceDirect Research in PubMed ACS Journal Natural Products Keep up with Dr. Riley Kirk: https://www.bioactivepodcast.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@cannabichem https://instagram.com/cannabichem https://www.appliedpharmacognosy.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    27 mins
  • Smuggling Cannabis: Tales and Tribulations with Ken Behr
    Dec 13 2024
    In this engaging conversation, Ken Behr shares his remarkable journey from a dyslexic child who struggled in school to a successful writer and former drug smuggler. He discusses the challenges he faced growing up, the influence of his family, and the cultural shifts he experienced moving to Florida during the rise of drug culture in the 1970s. Ken recounts his early experiences with cannabis, the transition to smuggling, and some of the wild stories from his past, including a dramatic plane smuggling incident that highlights the risks and adventures of that lifestyle. In this segment, Ken Behr shares his experiences in the world of drug smuggling, detailing the techniques and precautions taken during operations. He recounts high-stakes smuggling trips, the risks involved, and the consequences of getting caught, including a harrowing jail experience. The conversation shifts to the legal system, the role of lawyers, and the empathy he feels for those caught in the criminal justice system. Finally, Ken discusses his transition from smuggler to collaborator with the DEA, reflecting on the complexities of crime and punishment. In this conversation, Ken Behr shares his journey from being a drug smuggler to working with the DEA, highlighting the struggles he faced, the complexities of the justice system, and the evolution of cannabis understanding. He reflects on the modern cannabis industry, expressing his excitement about the changes and the importance of access to cannabis for all. The discussion also touches on the need for rehabilitation in the justice system and the impact of cannabis on society. Donate to Freedom Grow https://freedomgrow.org/ Purchase or listen to One Step Over the Line https://onestepovertheline.com/ Join the Bioactive Patreon: Patreon.com/Cannabichem Keep up with Dr. Riley Kirk: https://www.bioactivepodcast.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@cannabichem https://instagram.com/cannabichem https://www.appliedpharmacognosy.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 14 mins
  • Lit and Legit: Breaking the Stigma Surrounding Women in Media and Cannabis Use
    Nov 29 2024
    Host Riley Kirk interviews Sarah Burke, the founder of Women in Media Network and her new producer! They explore the intersection of cannabis, science, media, and the evolving perception of cannabis in society, especially as it pertains to women. They question some of the advertising challenges that the cannabis industry and content creators within it face, while looking at accepted habits and attitudes towards alcohol. They talk about content creation in the cannabis industry and its inevitable difficulties with censorship. Dr. Kirk emphasizes the medicinal benefits of cannabis and the importance of community knowledge and research in truly understanding its effects. Find out more about Sarah Burke and the Women in Media Network: https://www.womeninmedia.network/ https://www.instagram.com/burketalks/ https://www.instagram.com/wimnetwork/ Keep up with Dr. Riley Kirk: https://www.bioactivepodcast.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@cannabichem https://instagram.com/cannabichem https://www.appliedpharmacognosy.org/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    55 mins
  • FIRST New York Cannabis Event & Research Updates #NAPTIME with Dr. Miyabe Shields
    Nov 15 2024
    Dr. Miyabe Shields and Dr. Riley Kirk: Leaders in Cannabis and Natural Products Research Dr. Miyabe Shields and Dr. Riley Kirk, co-founders of the nonprofit organization The Network of Applied Pharmacognosy (NAP), are at the forefront of research and education in cannabis science and natural products. Through their work, NAP conducts national and international studies exploring diverse topics such as cannabis consumption patterns, consumer trends, emerging products, vape and lab testing, and data-driven insights into the natural products industry. Tune in as they share cutting-edge science, discuss critical challenges in the industry like solvent contamination and testing inconsistencies, and recount their experiences at global events like MJBizCon in Las Vegas. Learn how they tackle conference chaos, network with industry leaders, and navigate the ever-changing landscape of cannabis and natural product research. Get Involved with NAP's Research and Community Initiatives: Join the Kava/Kratom Study: Sign up here Learn more about Kava and Kratom or subscribe to NAP’s newsletter: Read the blog Participate in our Flower Mill Giveaway: Head to @BioactivePodcast on Instagram and comment something that rhymes with "MILL" on the post featuring the Flower Mill (live on 11/16/24). Stay informed, get involved, and discover the intersection of science, industry, and community with Dr. Shields, Dr. Kirk, and NAP. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 13 mins
  • The Science and Magic of Sungrown Cannabis
    Nov 1 2024
    🌱 The Science and Magic of Sungrown Cannabis | Bioactive Podcast 🌱 Join Dr. Riley Kirk and an inspiring panel of experts — Tina Gordon, Lindsay MaHarry, Colleen King, and Christina Wong — as they dive deep into the unique qualities of sungrown cannabis! Recorded after their 2024 Emerald Cup panel discussion, this episode explores the unparalleled benefits of cultivating cannabis in natural sunlight and the artistry behind it. 🌿 In This Episode: What Makes Sungrown Cannabis Unique: Discover the science and the magic that sunlight brings to cannabis cultivation and the experiences it creates. Quantifying the Sungrown Difference: Learn about the measurable (and immeasurable) qualities that set sungrown cannabis apart. Marketing and Educating Consumers: Strategies to effectively promote and distribute sungrown cannabis while educating consumers on its distinct qualities. Sungrown Cannabis Perspectives: Get insights from experts across various fields, including cultivation, distribution, journalism, cooking, and cannabis science. 🎉 Giveaway Alert! Congrats to @Ecologica_Projects for winning this week’s giveaway! Stay tuned for another chance to win next week. Check out the Full Panel Discussion at the Emerald Cup 2024: Watch Here ✨ Follow Us on Social Media: @MoonMadeFarms @_OysterGirl @FruitandFlower @ColleenColleen @BioactivePodcast @Cannabichem 📢 Support Cannabichem on Patreon for exclusive content: Patreon.com/Cannabichem 👉 Keywords: Sungrown cannabis, cannabis cultivation, Emerald Cup 2024, cannabis education, organic cannabis, cannabis science, sustainable cannabis, Bioactive Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 54 mins
  • The Expanded Entourage Effect: Curating your cannabis experience with your consumption method
    Oct 18 2024
    How Consumption Methods Affect Cannabis Chemistry | Dr. Riley Kirk | Bioactive Podcast In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk breaks down how cannabis consumption methods—whether smoking, vaping, or edibles—can impact the chemistry and effects you experience. We often focus on strain-specific effects to curate our cannabis experience, but your method of consumption also plays a key role. Different methods produce unique combinations of compounds, changing how you experience the Entourage Effect. This theory, introduced by Dr. Ethan Russo, explains how the many compounds in cannabis work together synergistically—often making the whole experience greater than the sum of its parts. But did you know the entourage effect varies with each consumption method? Dr. Riley Kirk shares her personal insights into how smoking, vaping, and edibles produce different results. Learn how to tailor your cannabis experience by understanding the relationship between strains and consumption methods. Subscribe to the Bioactive Podcast for more insights into cannabis science and chemistry, and join our Patreon community for early access to episodes and bonus content. Visit www.Patreon.com/cannabichem or contact Riley at BioactivePodcast.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    39 mins
  • Understanding Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) with Dr. Codi Peterson, & Megan Mbengue
    Oct 4 2024
    In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, we dive deep into a lesser-known but serious condition known as Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS). Join host Dr. Riley Kirk and guests Dr. Codi Peterson and Megan Mbengue as they explore the paradox of CHS, where in some rare cases, regular cannabis use leads to severe nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, despite cannabis being commonly used for its anti-nausea properties. We discuss the symptoms, the prodrome phase, and the potential genetic components that may predispose individuals to CHS. The episode also highlights an ongoing study being conducted by Dr. Kirk, Dr. Peterson and Megan Mbengue with the University of California, Irvine, aimed at understanding CHS better and improving diagnosis and treatment options. Listeners will learn about the unique relief some patients find in hot showers and capsaicin cream, as well as the challenges healthcare professionals face in diagnosing this condition. We also touch on the importance of understanding the role of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids in relation to CHS, and the implications for cannabis users. Whether you're a cannabis consumer, a healthcare professional, or just curious about CHS, this episode provides valuable insights and encourages participation in the ongoing research to better understand this complex syndrome. Links to the study and more resources are available in the show notes! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments below! Link to take part in the CHS Study: https://uci.questionpro.com/CHS-P1 Join the Bioactive Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cannabichem Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 9 mins