Understanding the Preparation and Uses of Medicinal Cannabis

Course Description 14.0 Contact Hours

This 2 day class is designed to acquaint patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals and interested individuals with viable alterna- tives to smoking cannabis. Many medicinal cannabis patients wish to take their medicine orally or transdermally due to either their condition or personal preference. This class will address these alternatives, as well as some methods of cannabis preparation and appropriate uses and dosages, based on evidence-based practice.

The first day will explain the role of cannabis in health care, the endocannabinoid system, and how to create a variety of delicious edibles while maximizing specific cannabinoids. Dosages, method of delivery, side effects and contraindications will be addressed and time allowed for individual questions. Case studies of various patients will be investigated and the efficacy of infused edibles will be evaluated.

The second day will explain the process of making tinctures and transdermals. Appropriate applications of each will be presented, along with supporting case studies. Dosages, method of delivery, side effects and contraindications of tincture and transdermal use will be discussed. Herbal synergy and ‘companion herbs’ will be addressed and the efficacy of this method of transmission evaluated. Time will be allowed for individual questions and clarification.

THIS IS A LAB CLASS, so come prepared to get involved in the extraction processes and take home samples of your products. Instructions for proper storage of infused products will be provided.

About the Instructors:

Caren Kershner comes to us from Colorado, where she is the owner of Herbal Extraction Resource Specialists, a small consultation and infused product company. She has worked in a Colorado dispensary for over two years and is familiar with many applications of medicinal cannabis and its effects on patients. She obtained her BS in Biology and Chemistry from Adams State College and an MAT in Integrated Natural Sciences from Colorado College. She has taught secondary and college classes for over 20 years, and has been recognized with several awards for her teaching abilities. She presently serves on the state board of the Colorado Association of Science Teachers, and continues to be a lifelong learner as well as an enthusiastic, knowledgeable and engaging instructor.

Lula M. Capuchino OTR/L is the CEO of ISIS Healthcare Services, Inc. and Co-Owner of ISIS Homecare Services. For over 20 years, she has provided the community with professional occupational therapy care. She graduated from San Jose State University in 1989 with BS in Occupational Therapy. She is experienced in both pediatrics and adults for orthopedic, neurologic and work related injuries. She treats those with chronic illnesses and who seek her non judgmental manner and consideration in their use of medicinal cannabis as an alternative means. She is a member of Minority Business Enterprise, the Mabuhay Club, American Occupational Therapy Association and has participated in medical missions