Medical Cannabis Editor
Dr. Maya Patel is a licensed pharmacist and cannabis therapeutics specialist with a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from UC San Francisco. Before joining MunchNews, she spent eight years in clinical pharmacy and cannabis research, publishing peer-reviewed studies on cannabinoid interactions. Maya translates complex medical research into accessible content, helping readers understand the science behind cannabis medicine. She serves on the editorial board of the Journal of Cannabis Research.
Medical CannabisHHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. told Joe Rogan the Trump administration is working across agencies to fast-track psychedelic therapy access, though specific timelines remain unclear.
New JAMA study tracking 400,000+ adolescents finds those who used cannabis as teens showed higher rates of psychosis, depression, and anxiety in adulthood, raising questions for regulators and industry.
LegislationNebraska's Medical Cannabis Commission chair has resigned, citing time constraints. Governor Pillen is now accepting applications for the vacancy as the state works to implement its voter-approved medical marijuana program.
LegislationNebraska's Medical Cannabis Commission chair resigned Monday, nine months after her appointment, creating uncertainty for the state's voter-approved medical marijuana program implementation.
Science & ResearchCalifornia has allocated $3 million to develop testing methods that can distinguish cannabis-derived terpenes from synthetic or botanical additives in vape products, potentially reshaping how the state enforces its ban on non-cannabis flavoring agents.
LegislationWest Virginia has collected over $1.2 million in medical cannabis licensing fees but refuses to spend it, citing federal money laundering concerns despite no prosecutions of state officials in other cannabis states.
LegislationNew York Governor Kathy Hochul will include two cannabis-related proposals in her upcoming state budget, though specific details have not yet been announced.
Industry NewsKentucky's second medical cannabis dispensary opened in Lexington this week, while the state's first processor also began operations, completing the infrastructure for a fully functional medical program.
Science & ResearchA medical review calling for better cannabis research methodology was mischaracterized as a health warning by mainstream outlets, highlighting ongoing challenges in accurate science communication.
CultureA government-supported study reveals that over a third of hip hop videos in 2024 feature marijuana, highlighting its cultural impact.
Industry NewsCalifornia's outgoing cannabis regulator reflects on leading the nation’s largest market, highlighting challenges and achievements.
BusinessTilray Brands reports a 5% growth in Q2 revenue, driven by international and Canadian sales.
Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS), linked to chronic cannabis use, now has a WHO medical code, aiding global research.
