420 with CNW — What You Need to Know About the 420 Cannabis Holiday

This year, an unusual overlap is happening: Easter Sunday and the unofficial cannabis celebration known as 420 both land on April 20. It’s a rare coincidence that hasn’t occurred in more than a decade. While Easter is a sacred day for Christians, marking the resurrection of Jesus, 420 is widely recognized by cannabis users as a day to celebrate marijuana culture.

Either way, April 20 carries meaning for millions and firms like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) will look back on how far they have…

420 with CNW — How U.S. Marijuana Companies Are Responding to President Trump’s Tariffs

Marijuana firms and related businesses are adjusting quickly to changing U.S. trade policies, particularly under the tariff strategies introduced by the Trump administration. Many of these businesses rely heavily on global suppliers, especially for packaging and manufacturing, and the tariffs have added new pressure to an already complex supply chain.

It remains to be seen what innovations marijuana firms like Cresco Labs Inc. (OTCQX: CRLBF) (CNX: CL) (FRA: 6CQ) will introduce to cope with the…

420 with CNW — How U.S. Marijuana Companies Are Responding to President Trump’s Tariffs

Although there have been efforts to boost U.S. manufacturing, the cannabis industry isn’t yet equipped to meet growing demand domestically. Packaging, for instance, often requires specialized technology that’s still lacking in the U.S., making overseas production necessary.

Some companies are taking steps to move parts of their operations back home. Custom Cones USA, for example, shifted its production of plastic pre-roll tubes to the U.S. to cut down on long shipping times and reduce warehousing needs. Still, the bulk of their key products are made in countries like India, Indonesia, and China. The sharp increase in tariffs, including a recent 145% hike on certain Chinese goods, has made importing even more expensive.

Despite efforts to relocate some production, there are limitations. U.S. facilities often can’t match Chinese manufacturers’ flexibility or low costs, especially for custom or small-batch orders. As a result, industry leaders say higher prices on consumer products like pre-rolls may be unavoidable if tariffs remain.

Ispire Technology, a marijuana-focused offshoot of Aspire, has already started shifting manufacturing from China to countries such as Malaysia, hoping to offset rising costs. The company is also leaning into pod-based vape systems, which reduce recurring hardware expenses and the tariff burden on components.

Meanwhile, some businesses are setting up new distribution channels. Custom Cones, for example, plans to ship directly to Canada from its Indonesian plant to maintain its supply chain amid growing trade tension between Canada and the U.S.

On the logistics side, companies such as Talaria are working to manage rising operational costs by automating warehouses, optimizing delivery routes, and partnering with more U.S.-based suppliers. But they, too, face uncertainty, especially with vehicle imports subject to future tariff changes.

Other businesses, like ZZZ’s Collective, are sticking with international suppliers despite shrinking profit margins, prioritizing consistency and customer trust over short-term savings.

Many in the industry warn that if economic conditions worsen or tariffs stay high, consumers will eventually see higher prices. Some worry that higher prices and taxes could drive buyers back to the black market, undermining efforts to build a legal, stable cannabis industry.

It remains to be seen what innovations marijuana firms like Cresco Labs Inc. (OTCQX: CRLBF) (CNX: CL) (FRA: 6CQ) will introduce to cope with the increasingly challenging business environment in light of the trade war.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Research Shows Marijuana Extract Improves Behavior of Autistic Kids, Teens

New findings shared at the 2025 European Congress of Psychiatry suggest that cannabidiol (CBD), a compound found in marijuana, may offer behavioral benefits for teens and children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

ASD affects roughly one in a hundred children globally. It often involves challenges with communication, emotional expression, social interactions, and a tendency toward repetitive behaviors. In the U.S., diagnoses have surged by roughly 175% from 2011 to 2022, with the latest data from the CDC estimating that 1 in 36 American children are on the spectrum.

Many of these children face behavioral and emotional challenges that go beyond those typically seen in neurotypical youth, often placing a heavy burden on families and caregivers.

Dr. Lara Branco, the lead author of the study, noted that although more adolescents and children are being diagnosed with ASD, treatment options remain limited and are often ineffective.

CBD is a major component of cannabis but does not cause a high like THC. Scientists suggest it interacts with receptors in the body and brain to potentially deliver therapeutic effects without intoxication.

The recent study explored data from three placebo-controlled clinical trials focused on adolescents and children with ASD. It involved a total of 276 youngsters aged 5 to 21 (average age of 10.5 years). About 78 percent of the participants were male. CBD was administered at an initial dose of 1 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, gradually increased to as much as 10 mg/kg.

The research showed that CBD extract led to reduced problem behaviors, lowered anxiety, better sleep, and improvements in social interaction. Notably, these benefits came without an increased risk of side effects. The effects were similar between those taking CBD and those given a placebo, suggesting it is generally safe for use in this group.

European Psychiatric Association President Professor Geert Dom welcomed the results, noting the frustration many families and doctors feel due to the lack of effective therapies for ASD. He expressed hope that findings like these could spark more research and eventually lead to better treatment strategies for the autism community.

Despite the promising results, the researchers pointed out that their analysis had some limitations, including a limited number of trial studies and relatively few participants. They noted that larger, high-quality trial studies are still needed to fully understand the long-term safety and effectiveness of CBD in treating autism symptoms.

Such studies are helping to provide further proof of the therapeutic potential of medical marijuana products from enterprises like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) and other industry actors as research documents how various cannabis compounds can help in addressing different symptoms.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Study Suggests Patients Have No Problem with Doctors Using Marijuana Off-Duty

A recent survey published in the Hand Surgery Global Online Journal explored how patients feel about their doctors using substances like marijuana, alcohol, and nicotine when off duty. The findings showed that more people were okay with their physician using cannabis recreationally than not, and even more were comfortable if it was for medical reasons.

Despite this, the findings may help guide future research and policy, especially as laws and attitudes continue to shift in different regions. These changing attitudes to cannabis use are in part due to legalization policies that have allowed licensed firms like Aurora Cannabis Corp. (NASDAQ: ACB) (TSX: ACB) and others across the…

420 with CNW — Study Suggests Patients Have No Problem with Doctors Using Marijuana Off-Duty

The survey involved 388 patients at four Pennsylvania orthopedic clinics, where only medical marijuana is legal. Most participants were white, around 55 years old on average, and nearly two-thirds said they had never used marijuana. Eleven percent were frequent users.

Participants responded to whether they were comfortable with their doctor using certain substances outside work hours. Alcohol had the highest acceptance rate, with 64% expressing comfort and only 13% expressing discomfort. Nicotine use followed, with 57% okay with it and 16% not.

When it came to cannabis, patients were more accepting of medical use (56%) than recreational (45%). However, 25% were against recreational use by doctors, compared to 16% for medical use, 16% for nicotine, and 13% for alcohol. Around 19% strongly opposed recreational cannabis use, the highest among all substances.

There was also a noticeable uncertainty about cannabis. About 14% weren’t sure how they felt about prescribed cannabis, while over 16.2% were uncertain about recreational use.

Interestingly, factors like the patients’ education level or personal marijuana use didn’t seem to impact their opinions on whether doctors should use cannabis when not working.

The survey also included questions about CBD and cannabis as part of treatment plans. Just over half (53%) were open to their doctor talking about marijuana as a treatment option, while 40% said they’d be willing to consider using it for medical reasons. For CBD, 55% were open to discussing its use. Still, about 20% of people were unsure about both substances being part of their care.

Researchers noted the wide range of opinions, saying the results reflect ongoing debates around cannabis and its role in healthcare. They pointed out that even with CBD, which doesn’t have psychoactive effects, many patients remained undecided.

The study acknowledged its limitations, such as its focus on a rural, mostly homogeneous group in one state. It also recognized that Pennsylvania’s current cannabis laws could influence how comfortable people are talking about cannabis use.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Dutch Marijuana Growers Applaud Decision to Expand Regulated Sales Experiment

The Dutch government has expanded a state-backed cannabis program to allow legal sales, even though growing it remains against the law in most cases. As of now, cannabis stores in ten cities can offer weed sourced from ten officially licensed growers.

For decades, selling small amounts of cannabis in Dutch coffee shops has been tolerated, but the actual cultivation was still illegal. This setup created a legal loophole where you could sell cannabis but not legally produce it. Rick Bakker, a commercial director of one of the approved growers, Hollandse Hoogtes, called it an overdue fix to a confusing situation.

Roughly 80 coffeeshops are now involved in the trial, which is designed to bring more consistency and safety to the cannabis supply chain. One of the main aims is to address issues tied to illegal cultivation, such as crime and poor quality control.

Hollandse Hoogtes, located close to the German border in Bemmel, produces about 440 pounds of cannabis each week. The facility resembles a standard greenhouse operation but stands out for its strict quality standards. Head grower Benjamin Selma, who previously worked in California’s marijuana industry, says every batch is tested for harmful microbes, heavy metals, cannabinoids, and terpenes. No pesticides are used, and the growing environment is closely monitored.

The facility also uses solar power and eco-friendly packaging as part of its sustainability efforts.

Although the Netherlands was one of the first countries to adopt a tolerant stance on cannabis back in the 1970s, the nation has become stricter in recent years. In places like Amsterdam, coffeeshops have been closing, and public smoking has been restricted in certain areas.

Supporters of the trial believe it’s a key step toward a safer, more transparent marijuana industry. Mayor Paul Depla of Breda highlighted the importance of cooperation between authorities, growers, and shop owners in making the system work.

The plan was first proposed in 2017 after a compromise between conservative and progressive political parties. The government has set a four-year period for the trial during which researchers will monitor its impact on public safety, health, and organized crime. Results from the trial will guide future decisions on national cannabis policy.

For growers like Selma, the shift to legal work is a relief. After years of operating under risky conditions, he said it feels almost unreal to finally produce cannabis without fear of legal consequences.

The participating cities include Zaanstad, Almere, Breda, Arnhem, Groningen, Tilburg, Heerlen, Hellevoetsluis, Nijmegen, and Maastricht.

As the system proves its efficacy, it could trigger opportunities for international players like Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (CNX: TRUL) (OTCQX: TCNNF) interested in expanding their global footprint.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Medical Marijuana Could Reduce Cravings, Boost Addiction Recovery

A recent pilot study by researchers from Thompson Rivers University (TRU) and the University of British Columbia (UBC) Okanagan explored how medically supervised marijuana use might support individuals undergoing treatment for substance use disorders in a residential recovery setting.

The research focused on the experiences of both residents and staff when cannabis was included as part of a recovery plan.

Participants shared that marijuana helped ease symptoms like depression, anxiety, pain, and sleep problems—issues that often make recovery harder. Some also reported fewer cravings for opioids and other addictive substances.

According to Dr. Zach Walsh, a psychology professor involved in the study, these effects suggest that cannabis could help people stick with their recovery programs by making both mental and physical challenges more manageable.

While the findings are encouraging, the researchers noted that stigma remains a big hurdle. Many staff members were skeptical about cannabis as a valid medical tool. Dr. Florriann Fehr, a nursing professor and co-lead on the study, emphasized the importance of educating staff to break down these barriers. “Misinformation and outdated views can prevent cannabis from being used effectively, even when it shows potential,” she added.

The research was carried out at Maverick Supportive Recovery, a live-in recovery facility situated in British Columbia offering structured care for those dealing with substance use. The program creates a stable environment designed to help people recover in a safe and supportive setting.

Although the initial results are positive, the team behind the study says broader research is needed. The authors noted that there is no one-size-fits-all solution, as recovery looks different for everyone, and what works for one person may not work for another. But if cannabis can help someone stay in treatment and manage their symptoms, it’s worth exploring further.

Ultimately, they noted that cannabis is not a replacement for traditional treatments but an additional option that could help certain individuals, especially when used under medical supervision.

To help reduce stigma and share knowledge, events like public forums and professional gatherings are being organized. Dr. Fehr is scheduled to present the study’s findings in June at a global nursing conference in Helsinki. In addition, Thompson Rivers University will host a Medical Cannabis and Recovery forum this April, welcoming the public, healthcare workers, and researchers interested in learning more about this topic.

The study was funded by the British Columbia Ministry of Health and the Interior Universities Research Coalition.

The findings of this small study could suggest to marijuana industry firms like Verano Holdings Corp. (Cboe CA: VRNO) (OTCQX: VRNOF) that there is still plenty of room to bring to market innovative cannabis products tailored to the needs of different groups of patients concerned about particular symptoms.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Study Finds CBD, CBG-Infused Ointment Effective Against Eczema

A recent study has found that a skin ointment containing cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabidiol (CBD) may help ease the symptoms of atopic dermatitis, commonly known as eczema. The research, published in the Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology journal, followed nine adults diagnosed with eczema over three months. The researchers tracked skin health indicators, including moisture levels, oil production, skin pH, and water loss.

Participants used a topical treatment containing 5% CBG, 30% CBD, cholesterol, and hemp seed oil. According to the researchers, applying the ointment daily to affected areas—specifically the forearms—and covering it with a wet wrap before sleep helped improve various skin health markers. These included hydration, oil levels, water loss, and redness.

Some patients even experienced remission of their symptoms. The treatment served as an alternative to more conventional therapies during both flare-ups and periods of remission.

The authors noted better results among participants who consistently followed the application routine. Those who skipped applications or were put off by the greasy feel of the product didn’t experience the same level of improvement.

While the results are promising, the researchers acknowledged that the timing of the study, from May to July of 2022, might have influenced outcomes, since eczema symptoms tend to lessen in warmer months.

This study adds to the growing interest in CBD’s role in skincare. A study from Thailand found that CBD may be useful in cosmetic products thanks to its antioxidant and wound-healing properties. Researchers there suggested that CBD could be added to items like sunscreen, hair products, or healing ointments.

Another study published by a team in the U.S. showed that using CBD-infused lotion might reduce skin damage caused by UV rays. Participants who applied the CBD product experienced less UV-related damage compared to a placebo group.

The potential benefits of cannabinoids may also extend to veterinary care. A 2024 study explored how full-spectrum cannabis oil helped a dog with discoid lupus erythematosus, an autoimmune condition that typically causes hair loss and skin lesions. Traditional steroid treatments had caused liver issues, but switching to cannabis oil—with a CBD to THC ratio of 1:2—led to notable improvement in the dog’s skin and liver health. The dog’s behavior also improved shortly after stopping steroid medication.

Overall, these findings suggest a growing interest in the role of cannabinoids as a potential option for managing various skin conditions in both humans and animals. The findings also show that the full range of therapeutic benefits that can be obtained from the available marijuana products on the market by players like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) has yet to be documented by researchers.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — White House List Shows Cannabis Rescheduling Isn’t a Priority for Now

Cannabis reform is not among President Donald Trump’s top drug policy goals for his first year back in office, according to a statement from the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP). Instead, the administration plans to prioritize tackling drug trafficking and addressing the opioid epidemic, with a particular focus on substances like fentanyl.

Although cannabis rescheduling efforts began under President Biden, progress has stalled due to complications with DEA hearings. Supporters of cannabis reform had hoped Trump would take action, especially since he expressed support for the idea during his campaign. However, he has remained quiet on the matter since taking office again, and the new drug policy roadmap makes no mention of marijuana.

Despite cannabis being left out, the administration also hasn’t indicated it will increase enforcement against cannabis like it plans to with drugs such as meth, heroin, cocaine, xylazine, and fentanyl. That neutrality may come as a relief to reform advocates. Some parts of the plan could even be seen as positive, such as efforts to broaden access to naloxone—the medication that reverses opioid overdoses—and pushing states to make drug test strips more available to the public.

The ONDCP says the president’s policy focus may expand over time as drug trends evolve. For now, the administration is emphasizing enforcement and prevention measures to protect communities, schools, and the border from the dangers of illegal substances.

Cannabis supporters argue that legal marijuana could help reduce opioid addiction and deaths, pointing to studies that show lower rates of opioid use in states where medical cannabis is available. With Trump having previously voiced support for medical marijuana, the complete omission of cannabis from the current plan is seen by some as a missed chance to incorporate a potential tool in the fight against opioids.

Whether this stance could shift remains uncertain. Trump’s nominee to lead the ONDCP, Sara Carter, has described medical cannabis as a “fantastic” option for people with serious health conditions and said she doesn’t oppose legalization, even if she’s not fully on board with it personally.

The policy update follows the White House’s announcement that there are no active plans for cannabis reform. While rescheduling is stalled, others had hoped the administration would at least push forward with cannabis banking legislation. According to CNN, Trump tried to include such a measure in a spending bill before returning to office, but it didn’t make it through.

Marijuana firms like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) will be watching to see whether the Trump administration finally gets round to completing the rescheduling work that was started under the previous administration. This policy change could usher in a new era for the industry.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com