Health

(UPDATED with statement from defendants Sera Labs) The man who played Dirty Harry back in the day wants a group of online CBD retailers to make his day in court to the tune of much more than a fistful of dollars.

Seeking “an award of actual and compensatory damages in the millions of dollars” and more in profits, Clint Eastwood on Wednesday fired off a federal lawsuit (read it here) against a series of companies and their executives for placing metatags with his name in them to juice online searches. Filed at the same time, a second jury trial suit (read it here) from the Oscar-winning Million Dollar Baby director goes after Sera Labs Inc., Greendios and For Our Vets LLC for “an online scam that uses a false, defamatory, and wholly fabricated ‘news article’ about Mr. Eastwood to promote and sell cannabidiol (“CBD”) products.”

“The fraudulent ‘article’ contains links to purchase what it claims are Mr. Eastwood’s line of CBD products, thereby allowing the defendants to illegally profit from their misuse of Mr. Eastwood’s name, likeness, and false association with their products,” the suit filed by Eastwood attorneys Jordan Susman and Margo Arnold of Encino’s Nolan Heimann LLP bluntly states.

“In truth, Mr. Eastwood has no connection of any kind whatsoever to any CBD products and never gave such an interview,” adds the defamation, trademark infringement and false endorsement complaint. It also says that that claims in the fake piece that Eastwood “‘would be stepping away from the spotlight to put more time into his wellness business” and “relations with some studios grew so tense that they ended up giving him an ultimatum – acting or his wellness line” are “demonstrably untrue.”

BTW, in case you are wondering, according to his PR firm on the suits, the former Mayor of Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA actually has never expressed a “point of view about CBD products or the legitimate CBD industry.”

Certainly Wednesday’s duel legal actions had something to say.

“For more than 60 years, Clint Eastwood has been one of the most famous actors, producers, and directors in the world,” both complaints assert. “Mr. Eastwood is fiercely protective of his name and image, and has rarely licensed either for the promotion of products outside of the movies he acted in or directed,” they go on to pronounce.

“Like many of his most famous characters, Mr. Eastwood is not afraid to confront wrongdoing and hold accountable those that try to illegally profit off his name,” the filings add with no small sense of humor from the now 90-year-old cinema icon who played “the man with no name” in those classic spaghetti Westerns from Sergio Leone.

“Indeed, Mr. Eastwood previously litigated and won a jury trial against the National Enquirer, which was affirmed on appeal, after the tabloid falsely claimed to have exclusively interviewed Mr. Eastwood and misappropriated his name, likeness, and personality to promote and sell its product.”

Outside of the filing,  Eastwood’s lawyer wasn’t reticent either.

“My client is not one to sit idly by as the defendants use his good name to dupe customers into purchasing products with which he has no affiliation,” Nolan Heimann LLP’s Susman told Deadline.

“While the purpose of these lawsuits is to halt and remedy ongoing defamation and misappropriation violations, they should also serve as a reminder to customers to be cautious when they see a too-good-to-be-true celebrity endorsement,” the attorney adds of an online environment where celebs like George Clooney, Oprah, Tom Hanks and even a former POTUS or two often find themselves fighting phony endorsement or product-placement advertising using their image or name. “I expect these lawsuits will send a message to others about what will happen if they spread false and defamatory statements about Mr. Eastwood or use his name and likeness without permission.”

One of a number of defendants in the complaint about the “wholly fabricated ‘news article,’ Sera Labs said in a statement Wednesday: “Sera Labs worked for a limited time with a publisher and gave them specific advertisements they could use which follow our very strict guidelines. The company shut down the ads immediately after learning that they used Eastwood’s name and likeness. Sera’s internal guidelines vividly prohibits using celebrities or false claims in its ads, and it used completely different ads that had been switched out for the Eastwood ad without any knowledge.The Company immediately severed any and all relationships with the advertiser and continue to be vigilant with monitoring any and all of our external advertising partners. We strongly encourage the rest of our industry to take these same steps to completely and immediately ensure transparency for all of our customers.”

Still, unless this is settled soon, none of that takes away from the ethos this has of “Go ahead, make my day,” as Harry Callahan said in Eastwood’s Sudden Impact from 1983.

In the fight versus Covid-19, cytokine storms are among the most lethal aspects that medical professionals are battling. This sign in serious cases of the novel coronavirus can cause extreme swelling, swelling, pain, and loss of organ function. It can even cause the immune system to ramp up a lot that it begins killing the body’s own cells – rather of just battling the infection. In severe cases, this can result in death, as we’ve seen in a lot of cases of extreme Covid-19

In the last couple of months, scientists have been taking a look at whether cannabis, or it’s lots of chemical compounds, might help to combat this deadly impact by bringing down inflammation. Recently, we have actually seen favorable outcomes from studies suggesting that CBD, a substance in marijuana, might assist battle these cytokine storms.

Now early results from an ongoing Israeli study are contributing to the chorus of scientists suggesting that cannabis’ components could be a game altering treatment in the fight against Covid-19 This research study states that terpenes, substances that provide the fragrance and taste in cannabis and many other plants, might lead to even much better outcomes than CBD alone, and may surpass traditional treatments like corticosteroids. Reports from the study show that a mix of CBD with terpenes was 3 times more effective at inhibiting cytokine activity than dexamethasone, a corticosteroid which a recent research study found to be an effective treatment for Covid-19 cytokine storms.

The brand-new terpene research study is being carried out by two Israeli research and development companies, Eybna which concentrates on terpene based medications, and CannaSoul Analytics which is led by Prof. David “Dedi” Meiri, PhD a popular marijuana scientist and biochemist who has actually studied cannabis’ usage for conditions like cancer and Alzheimer’s illness. This brand-new research study was created to learn whether anti-inflammatory terpenes may assist reduce harmful cytokine storms, and if they could, how they compared to other offered treatments.

The research study takes a look at an exclusive terpene formulation called NT-VRL ™, which was created by Eybna to deal with inflammatory conditions such as the cytokine storm syndrome discovered in Covid-19 patients. The formulation consists of 30 specific terpenes that are possible anti-inflammatory agents, and thought about usually safe for consumption.

Data scientist Nadav Eyal, who is Co-Founder & CEO at Eybna, explains that they made use of “biological information mining, data processing and solution style” to create a “solution successfully targeting particular health conditions” such as cytokine storms. He says that this approach of advancement “is opening a brand-new world for synergistically-effective natural solutions – holding healing abilities in which single Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients will have troubles to match.”

Simply put, while a lot of medicines consist of one active component, this formula consists of 30 different ingredients all working together to create helpful results.

To test this terpene formulaton, scientists used a “Cytokine Storm Assay” from Cannasoul, which Dr. Meiri says is well-established and allows for the “evaluation of Cytokine Storm Syndrome.” Utilizing human blood cells, the assay helps researchers to examine the effect of different treatments on cytokine secretion – the major consider cytokine storms in severe cases of Covid-19

Along with the NT-VRL ™ terpene formula, researchers also checked CBD, CBD with NT-VRL ™, and Dexamethasone utilizing this assay. Dexamethasone was consisted of because it is a corticosteroid typically utilized to reduce inflammation. In a current research study in the UK, it was found to decrease mortality by one third in hospitalized Covid-19 patients utilizing ventilators. The World Health Company is currently upgrading their suggestions to consist of utilizing dexamethasone or other corticosteroids in severe cases of Covid-19

Each substance was checked to see how it impacted cytokine activity, and the outcomes are rather shocking. Not only was the terpene formula able to prevent the cytokine activity, (with better results utilizing greater doses), but it likewise outshined both CBD and dexamethasone. CBD alone hindered around 75%of the cytokines typically, while the terpenes alone hindered around 80%, suggesting that Eybna’s terpene mix might be even more reliable than CBD for swelling reduction.

Still, the best results came from the mix of CBD and the NT-VRL ™ terpene formula, which was able to prevent around 90%of the evaluated cytokines. In comparison, dexamethasone was only able to hinder around 30%of the cytokines, recommending that the mix of CBD and terpenes may be 2 times more effective than the existing recommended treatment.

” The preliminary outcomes were highly positive,” explains Eyal, adding that they are “showing considerable anti-inflammatory activity of terpenes and breaking the understanding that terpenes are just flavorings and scents compounds with a placebo effect.”

Still, while this in-vitro study offers essential insight into the possible to use terpenes and CBD in the fight versus Covid-19, it is essential to keep in mind that these results are coming from a continuous study that has yet to be finished, peer examined or published. These results still require to be evaluated and confirmed by the larger scientific neighborhood, however if they show to be precise, they could provide impetus for human trials looking into whether this combination of CBD and terpenes in fact works for patients with Covid-19 related cytokine storm syndrome.

An earlier variation of this piece incorrectly reported that the outcomes of the study suggested CBD and the NT-VRL ™ formulation were 3 times more reliable than dexamethasone, rather than 2 times more effective.

For decades, mainstream and cannabis companies have largely run within their unique lanes. Federal and local regulations produced apparently impenetrable limits for both sectors to interact to reach new audiences, however as the nationwide legalization movement continues to accelerate and an increasing number of customers embrace legal cannabis products, the lucrative potential of marijuana consumer data can no longer be overlooked by mainstream business.

However, these developed industries can deal with aggravating challenges in their attempts to gain access to valuable customer information and are frequently utilizing out-of-date or extremely incorrect details to make critical marketing choices. Cannabis data and solutions business including Fyllo and New Frontier Data have acknowledged the resonating demand for extensive market information from mainstream companies and have developed pioneering innovations that will ultimately bridge these glaring and pricey data spaces.

Today, Fyllo released Cannabis Derived Audiences, a platform within its Data Marketplace that supplies marijuana consumer profiles to mainstream marketers for programmatic media buying and audience targeting. The company has actually partnered with audience innovation platform Eyeota to bring its trove of unique datasets to mainstream companies eager to engage with brand-new customer audiences.

Fyllo’s over 11 million consumer data profiles, which represents approximately half of the whole legal market, can be leveraged by mainstream CPG, fitness and health, retail and hospitality brand names to fine tune their audience outreach and marketing methods. The business’s industry-specific audiences, such as edible, sativa or recreational buyers, can be overlaid on conventional consumer groups, consisting of treking enthusiasts, fast food lovers, or red wine lovers, to create a brand-new series of sections that not only resonate with standard audiences but likewise target the modern-day marijuana purchaser personality.

Fyllo Founder and CEO Chad Bronstein believes that this service can open the floodgates to a new age of marketing synergies and possibly overthrow recognized marketing norms.

” It’s uncommon that an entirely new information set comes to market that can drive development. Our preliminary collaboration with Eyeota enables us to bring Marijuana Derived Audiences to market at a business level, with the information quality, compliance and privacy rigor the ad tech market expects. We anticipate making it possible for gain access to of a totally new data set so brand names spanning essential sectors can tap into an entirely new set of information attributes to drive performances and enhance projects.”

Likewise, New Frontier Data introduced NXTeck, a data solutions platform that connects mainstream advertisers with information insights from over 100 million CBD customers across the country. Through this service, brand name marketers can utilize these CBD information points, which provide valuable insights into customer preferences, demographics and interests to efficiently discover, sector and target possible brand-new customers that line up with the brand name’s way of life or messaging.

For instance, physical fitness or athleisure companies aiming to reach brand-new and responsive audiences can tap into NXTeck or Cannabis Derived Audiences datasets and strategically target consumers who are buying CBD edibles or recovery topical products. Brands that use these brand-new information tools will have the capability to accurately target essential audiences and gain a competitive advantage within their own saturated markets.

The past few months have actually undoubtedly been a watershed minute for legal marijuana. The industry’s desirable vital status in 33 states in the midst of a global pandemic has permitted it to produce unprecedented levels of social and political approval. Research Studies estimate that the variety of cannabis consumers in the U.S. will reach 46.6 million individuals by 2025, which suggests that business like Fyllo and New Frontier Data are presently sitting on a gold mine of insights that might possibly redefine how marketers develop and carry out future projects. These recent technological developments not just exhibit the remarkable maturity of the overall market, however also speak with the remarkable economic worth of a market that is now on the cusp of getting in the mainstream.

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After evaluating almost 1,000 CBD products from the largest and most established CBD brand names in the U.S., shopCBD produced exciting lab results that showcase an objective variety of reputable and trustworthy CBD. The company wished to assess CBD products on the market to ensure they were safe and genuinely included the identified cannabinoids. shopCBD’s laboratory results showed that 43%of items include less CBD than marketed, and amongst items deemed dangerous for human intake, 52%contained arsenic or lead. These outcomes were particularly disconcerting with items tailored for body and skin care, where 42%of items consisted of elevated levels of contaminants such as pesticides or heavy metals.

For those concerned about selecting the right body and skincare products, there are a number of brand names that safely and reliably offer muscle and joint relief; soften skin; and provide a natural solution to sunburns. Here are 8 checked choices that include creams, balms, and sprays:

1. Medterra CBD Rapid Cooling Cream

Bearing a long list of exceptionally effective plant extracts and oils that will assist to ease your pains and discomforts, CBD Rapid Cooling Cream 750 mg by Medterra consists of menthol, arnica, rosemary, ginger root, and 750 mg of CBD isolate. When you rub this cream onto the skin, you will discover a hint of a minty scent. The texture is also appropriate for quick absorption and relief.

2. Green Roadways Muscle & Joint Heat Relief

Offering a similar experience to a standard icy hot pain cream with the addition of 750 mg of broad-spectrum CBD, Green Roads Muscle & Joint Heat Relief includes menthol and arnica. This roll-on will assist to decrease discomfort and inflammation; improve flow; in addition to decrease headaches and migraine pain.

3. cbdMD Freeze Pain Relief Roller

Consisting of effective anti-inflammatory components such as arnica and menthol in addition to 750 mg of broad spectrum CBD, the cbdMD Freeze Pain Relief Roller has the cooling experience of menthol together with the moisturizing residential or commercial properties of aloe vera and vitamin E. This roller is a good option for those that have aches and discomforts or catch sunburns.

4. Plant People Salve Plant Balm

The Plant Individuals Salve Plant Balm is a beeswax based CBD salve that helps to create a calming impact on the skin utilizing strong important oils, in addition to 420 mg of cannabinoids per container. A benefit to this item is soft and silky skin.

5. Social CBD Hemp Derived CBD Muscle Rub

A few of the ingredients included in the Social CBD Hemp Derived CBD Muscle Rub consist of arnica montana, menthol, tea tree, MSM, and 250 mg of CBD. The rub takes in quickly into the skin and decorates the surface area with wetness abundant aloe vera and vitamin E.

6. Papa & Barkley CBD Hemp Balm

This California farm-based item, Papa & Barkley CBD Hemp Balm, prides itself on being made from natural components including beeswax and essential oils such as lavender, eucalyptus and peppermint. The balm develops warming and cooling experiences when rubbed onto the skin.

7. PlusCBD Additional Strength Balm

Your back or neck aching is a major interruption, but you can use PlusCBD’s additional strength CBD balm, developed to relieve muscle pains. A few of the residential or commercial properties of the balm consist of hydrating plant oils; medical important oils; 100 mg of full-spectrum CBD; and willow bark, which has been called nature’s aspirin.

8. Vertly Cooling Body Spray

Those that take part in active exercises will benefit from the lavender and lemongrass fragrant Vertly Cooling Body Spray option which eases aching muscles. Some of the anti-inflammatory components consist of Vertly Cooling Body Spray comfrey, peppermint, MSM, magnesium, and 125 mg of full-spectrum CBD.

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As we continue to see outbreaks of the novel coronavirus surging, many are waiting and hoping for treatments to be developed that might treat, cure or prevent the potentially deadly disease. In a surprising turn of events, cannabis is on the list of potential treatments. 

While researchers are exploring many different possibilities in combating COVID-19, some researchers are looking into whether cannabis or cannabis derived CBD might offer benefits for those suffering from severe forms of this infection. Interestingly, there have been several different ways researchers have suggested CBD might help, including its ability to reduce ACE2 expression and pro-inflammatory cytokine production to fight lung inflammation, and it’s potential as an antiviral. But few studies have tested these theories with actual experimentation.  

Now new evidence is adding support to the theory that cannabis derived CBD may help those suffering from the severe lung inflammation that occurs in more serious cases of COVID-19. The study from researchers at Augusta University in Georgia suggests  that CBD may positively impact ARDS or acute respiratory distress syndrome – a dangerous symptom in COVID-19 caused by an overactive inflammatory response. This is sometimes referred to as a ‘cytokine storm’. The authors of the study explain that “currently, other than supportive measures, there is no definitive cure for ARDS, illustrating the urgent need for creative and effective therapeutic modalities to treat this complex condition.”

But CBD may be able to help treat this dangerous symptom of COVID-19. The researchers suggest CBD may be able to help by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokine production, fighting off the storm. By reducing specific cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1b, and IL-17, we may be able to bring down the inflammation and thus end the respiratory distress and damage. And the results of these researchers’ experiments supported this theory. 

The research itself was performed on mice, who were first given a treatment called Poly(I:C) to artificially induce ARDS, with symptoms similar to what we see in severe COVID-19 patients. This created a cytokine storm, reduced the blood oxygen saturation by 10%, and even produced structural damages to the lungs in mice subjects. Then after the mice were experiencing the cytokine storm and coinciding respiratory distress, they were given CBD. And the results showed just how powerful CBD can be when treating ARDS. “These symptoms were totally or partially reversed and returned to the level and condition of the normal after treatment with CBD” the authors report. 

In particular, mice treated with CBD saw reduced expression of IL-6, an important marker for cytokine storms, and lowered the levels of other proinflammatory cytokines. While the Poly:(I:C) spiked inflammatory markers, “CBD treatment reversed all these inflammatory indices and partially re-established homeostasis” the authors explain. Mice treated with CBD also had increases in lymphocyte levels in their blood, which are important white blood cells for fighting off infections. 

Researchers on the study say that CBD could play an immunotherapeutic role in treating severe respiratory viral infections like COVID-19, based on the present findings. 

“The current data support the notion that the anti-inflammatory function of CBD may reduce cytokine storm and mitigate the effects of exaggerated inflammation” they explain. They add that “considering all potential regulatory effects of CBD as well as the vast distribution of endocannabinoid system in the body, it is plausible that CBD may be used as a therapeutic candidate in the treatment of various inflammatory conditions including COVID-19 and other virus-induced ARDS.”

Of course, this is an early study, and more research needs to be done – particularly more research that tests this theory on actual human subjects with COVID-19 related ARDS. The authors point out that “obviously, more studies are required to expand and validate this therapeutic strategy.” 

While we may have to wait for more research before this is being used as an active treatment for COVID-19, this study gives us good reason to hope that CBD might eventually be harnessed to help fight ARDS. It also adds to the chorus of researchers and cannabis advocates suggesting that we look further into cannabis and its potential to fight this deadly disease.