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BIOACTIVE — Nature
BIOACTIVE

Dr. Riley Kirk is a cannabis research scientist and educator. She obtained her Ph.D. in pharmaceutical sciences, specializing in natural product chemistry, studying the traditional and contemporary uses of hundreds of medicinal plants. She is currently an assistant associate professor at the University of Rhode Island, has worked as an immunology scientist in the biotech industry, and works in the cannabis industry studying the chemical complexity of cannabis smoke.
Riley is also the co-founder of the cannabis research and education non-profit organization called the Network of Applied Pharmacognosy (NAP). Through NAP and on her podcast, Riley uses science as advocacy to research and communicate findings that highlight the unique power of natural products. The goal of Riley’s work is to unite people in the Cannabis industry, academia, and consumers to further the reach of Cannabis education and reduce harm.
Riley is passionate about making Cannabis science accessible through social media channels and alternative media which lead to Bioactive; an educational podcast which disseminates the chemistry and pharmacology of natural products. On this bi-weekly podcast, she covers current news and research surrounding cannabis, psychedelics, toxins, pharmaceuticals & other bioactive substances. Listen for special guests highlighting community stories.

Copyright: © 881375

Latest Episodes:

Indoor Grow Tips, Mastering the Dry and Cure and Community Q&A with Jordan River from Growcast Nov 28, 2025

Show notes

Dr. Riley Kirk has Jordan River on the podcast to discuss the intricacies of indoor cannabis cultivation, sharing personal experiences and insights on various aspects of growing. They cover topics such as the challenges of transitioning plants from outdoor to indoor environments, the importance of consistency in care, effective watering techniques, and the management of temperature and light. Additionally, they delve into soil health, pest management, and the processes of harvesting, drying, and curing cannabis. The discussion emphasizes practical tips for both novice and experienced growers, highlighting the importance of observation and adaptation in successful gardening.

They also delve into various aspects of cannabis cultivation, including the peel test for assessing dryness, the benefits of co-planting with vegetables, and the critical factors in drying and curing cannabis. They also discuss outdoor growing techniques, best practices for storing cannabis, and the innovative use of CO2 enhancement in grow tents. The dialogue further explores the timing for outdoor planting, the nuances of transplanting auto flowers, and the challenges faced by growers in prohibition states. Finally, they touch on the exciting intersection of coffee and cannabis, highlighting the potential for a unique beverage experience.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Indoor Growing Challenges

08:17 Understanding Plant Care and Consistency

14:58 Temperature and Light Management

22:56 Watering Techniques and Best Practices

27:19 Understanding Living Soil and Its Ecosystem

29:03 Light Cycles and Their Importance in Growth

31:03 Indoor vs Outdoor Growing: Key Differences

32:37 The Debate on Bud Washing: Pros and Cons

35:39 Drying and Curing: Best Practices

40:20 The Science of Drying: Metrics That Matter

42:41 Co-Planting: Growing Food Alongside Cannabis

45:27 Pre-Harvest Moisture and Air Turbulence in Drying

50:40 Topping Outdoor Plants: Timing and Techniques

57:08 Storing Cannabis: Best Practices for Longevity

58:07 Innovative Storage Solutions for Cannabis

01:00:45 Enhancing Plant Growth with CO2 and Mushrooms

01:04:32 Best Practices for Outdoor Cannabis Growing

01:08:40 Transplanting Auto Flowers: Tips and Tricks

01:09:41 Navigating Growing in Prohibition States

01:14:52 The Intersection of Coffee and Cannabis

Take the Homegrow Survey

https://ilgm.com/resources/landing/state-of-the-homegrow

Learn More About Growcast/ Join the Community

https://growcast.com/

Free Grow Guide from Growcast

https://growcast.com/guide/

Follow Growcast on IG:

@Growcast

Want Exclusive Content and ad-free episodes?

Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your burning questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more expert insights into cannabis science, plant biology, and more!

Sign Up for Emails!

www.AppliedPharmacognosy.org

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

THC Infused Beverages: New Data from MoreBetter Nov 14, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk and Dr. Miyabe Shields dive into the world’s largest study on infused cannabis beverages, exploring how cannabinoid-based drinkables are transforming wellness, social drinking culture, and public health. They sit down with Tyler and Kevin from MoreBetter who designed and executed this groundbreaking study.

They break down the study design, participant demographics, and key findings, including data showing a reduction in alcohol consumption, improved sleep and mental health outcomes, and insights into why consumers are turning to cannabis beverages as a safer, more accessible alternative.

The discussion also gets technical, unpacking how emulsification and formulation science influence onset, absorption, and overall product efficacy. Whether you’re a formulator, researcher, or just a curious consumer, this episode brings evidence-based clarity to one of the fastest-growing segments of the cannabis industry.

This conversation is more important than ever right now as hemp beverages are about to become illegal with the new legislation around THC in hemp products.

What You’ll Learn

How cannabinoid-infused beverages are reshaping the future of social consumption
Key results from the world’s largest infused drink study
What emulsification means for onset, bioavailability, and effects
The surpris
ing connection between cannabis beverages and reduced alcohol intake
How these findings could influence public policy and consumer education

Episode Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction to the Study

05:01 – Study Design & Participant Demographics

15:01 – Key Findings on Alcohol Consumption

25:01 – The Science of Emulsification

35:01 – Impact on Sleep & Mental Health

45:01 – Policy & Education Implications

55:01 – Closing Thoughts & Future Directions

Want Exclusive Content and ad-free episodes?

Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your burning questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more expert insights into cannabis science, plant biology, and more!

Read the Full Beverage Report:

www.MoreBetter.ltd

Follow MoreBetter on social media:

@MoreBetter.ltd

Sign Up for Emails!

www.AppliedPharmacognosy.org

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

Going To College to Become a Cannabis Scientist with Guest Alex Eckman Oct 31, 2025

Show notes

Alex Eckman shares his journey in the cannabis industry, from being a medical patient to pursuing a degree in cannabis chemistry at Lake Superior State University. He discusses the evolution of cannabis education, the importance of research, and his findings on vape carts and microplastics. Alex also addresses the challenges facing the Michigan cannabis market and his aspirations for the future, emphasizing the need for education and informed decision-making in the industry.

Chapters

00:00Introduction and Background

03:00 The Landscape of Cannabis Education

06:07 Academic vs. Industry Experience

09:05 Research Opportunities in Cannabis

11:53 Vape Cart Research and Findings

14:57 Concerns About Microplastics in Vape Products

17:57 Future Research Directions

20:55 Conclusions and Reflections

31:57 Informed Choices in Cannabis Consumption

34:06 The Importance of Research and Consumer Safety

37:14 Navigating the Cannabis Job Market

40:32 Challenges in the Michigan Cannabis Industry

43:48 Regulatory Changes and Their Impact

46:39 The Evolution of Cannabis Pricing in Michigan

51:26 Home Growing: Opportunities and Challenges

53:51 The Future of the Michigan Cannabis Market

54:31 Reflections on Experience in Ohio's Cannabis Market

57:46 The Entrepreneurial Spirit in Cannabis

01:01:42 Looking Ahead: Opportunities and Optimism

Want Exclusive Content and ad-free episodes?

Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your burning questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more expert insights into cannabis science, plant biology, and more!

Thank you to the sponsors of this episode, including MOTHER EARTH: Rooted in Nature. Back by Experience. ⁠⁠https://www.mother-earthproducts.com/ ⁠⁠

Follow Alex on social media:

@AlexEckmanCanna

CRC Video on Microplastics:

https://youtu.be/fauGztO8Z0Q?si=4Tbjkm15cVJ3tcbv

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

My Birth/ Postpartum Journey (So Far) Oct 17, 2025

Show notes

CONTENT WARNING: IF YOU HAVE STRUGGLED WITH A DIFFICULT BIRTH EXPERIENCE THIS STORY MAY NOT BE BENEFICIAL TO LISTEN TO

Dr. Riley Kirk shares her postpartum journey, discussing her high-risk pregnancy due to ICP, the challenges of early induction, and her return to cannabis use for mental well-being. She emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, mental health, and the healing power of cannabis, while also expressing gratitude for her supportive community.

00:00 Introduction and Pregnancy Update
5:00 High-Risk Pregnancy and ICP
8:00 Managing ICP and Induction
15:00 Birth Experience and Recovery
30:00 Postpartum Challenges and Cannabis
40:27 Advocacy and Future Plans

Want Exclusive Content and ad-free episodes?

Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your burning questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more expert insights into cannabis science, plant biology, and more!

Thank you to the sponsors of this episode, including Botanicare: Quality-minded growers choose Botanicare. From CalMag to CocoGro, their line supports healthy roots, heavy flowers, and serious results. Feed your plants with purpose, choose Botanicare. https://www.botanicare.com/

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

Flavonoids in Cannabis: Introducing Cannflavins Oct 03, 2025

Show notes

Dr. Riley Kirk welcomes international cannabis consultant, researcher, and author Russ Hudson to explore the fascinating world of flavonoids—an often overlooked but powerful group of compounds found in cannabis and everyday foods. In this episode, Russ shares his journey from the underground cannabis market to scientific research, and together they break down what flavonoids are, how they impact plant color, health, and resilience, and why they matter for human nutrition and wellness. Discover the latest research on cannabis-specific flavonoids, their potential medicinal benefits, and practical tips for boosting flavonoids in your diet.

More About Russ Hudson:

Russ Hudson is an international cannabis consultant, researcher, and the author of The Big Book of Terps - the world's largest scientific resource on terpenes and synergy in cannabis, and The Formidable Book of Flavonoids, a companion textbook. Russ has dedicated more than 30 years to cannabis, working with the private social clubs of Spain, the coffeeshops and suppliers of the Netherlands, and cannabis, hemp, and CBD producers in Germany, Switzerland, Portugal, and other EU countries, while also specializing as a cannabis licensing, compliance, and regulatory affairs expert in many US states. Russ has been arrested and jailed for cultivation and trafficking, he has been the subject of a Vice documentary, he has written a children's book about cannabis, and he currently researches and collaborates with the world's leading cannabinoid, terpene, flavonoid, and other scientists.

Want Exclusive Content and ad-free episodes?

Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your burning questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more expert insights into cannabis science, plant biology, and more!

Thank you to the sponsors of this episode, including MOTHER EARTH: Rooted in Nature. Back by Experience. ⁠⁠https://www.mother-earthproducts.com/ ⁠⁠

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

Cannabis and Geriatric Care with Dr. Janice Makela, MD PART TWO: Sleep & Mental Health Sep 19, 2025

Show notes

In part two of Dr. Riley Kirk's conversation with Dr. Janice Makela, MD, they delve into the complexities of cannabis use among the elderly, discussing its potential benefits and risks for sleep and mental health matters. The conversation also covers the importance of low dosing, the role of the endocannabinoid system, and the challenges of integrating cannabis into traditional medical practices. Big thanks to Dr. Janice for answering so many questions from the Bioactive community!

Find out more about Dr. Janice Makela, MD:

⁠https://www.janicemakelamd.com/⁠

Want Exclusive Content and ad-free episodes?

Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your burning questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more expert insights into cannabis science, plant biology, and more!

Thank you to the sponsors of this episode, including MOTHER EARTH: Rooted in Nature. Back by Experience. ⁠https://www.mother-earthproducts.com/ ⁠

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

Cannabis and Geriatric Care with Dr. Janice Makela Sep 05, 2025

Show notes

Host Dr. Riley Kirk is joined by Dr. Janice Makela, MD for part one of a two part episode; the conversation was so interesting they couldn't cut it short!

They discuss the evolving landscape of cannabis medicine, particularly for the geriatric population. She emphasizes the importance of education for both patients and physicians, addressing common misconceptions and the need for responsible dosing. The discussion covers various consumption methods, including edibles and tinctures, and highlights the potential benefits and risks associated with cannabis use in older adults. Dr. Makela also shares insights on the importance of safe and legal access to cannabis products. The discussion delves into the risks associated with smoking, including bronchitis and COPD, and highlights the benefits of using vaporizers over traditional smoking methods. The speakers also discuss the efficacy of cannabis topicals for pain relief and their role in wound care, and the importance of considering drug interactions. The speakers advocate for a cautious approach to cannabis use, especially among older adults and those with existing health conditions. Please consult your physician or health care team for questions that relate specifically to your health.

Find out more about Dr. Janice Makela, MD:

https://www.janicemakelamd.com/

Want Exclusive Content and ad-free episodes?

Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your burning questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more expert insights into cannabis science, plant biology, and more!

Thank you to the sponsors of this episode, including MOTHER EARTH: Rooted in Nature. Back by Experience. https://www.mother-earthproducts.com/

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

Dry Herb Vaping with Jürgen Bickel | STORZ & BICKEL + Volcano & Mighty Giveaway Aug 22, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, I sit down with Jürgen Bickel, Managing Director and Co-Founder of STORZ & BICKEL, the legendary German company behind the Volcano, Mighty, Venty and Crafty vaporizers.

We dive deep into: - What dry herb vaping is and how it works - Why vaporizing cannabis may be a healthier option compared to smoking - The science behind medical-grade vaporizers and what makes STORZ & BICKEL devices trusted by patients and professionals worldwide - Which herbs (beyond cannabis) you can safely vaporize for wellness and relaxation - How vapor quality, temperature control, and engineering impact your cannabis experience.

Whether you’re a medical cannabis patient, wellness enthusiast, or adult-use consumer curious about switching it up from combustion, this episode offers insight into one of my personal favorite ways to consume- dry herb vaping.

We’re giving away TWO legendary vaporizers: A Volcano Vaporizer (the classic desktop powerhouse) A Mighty Vaporizer (the portable medical-grade vape)

To enter, just fill out a quick survey about dry herb vaping. https://forms.gle/Upce2XnHXFHugRNu7

Learn more about Storz and Bickel Products:

https://www.storz-bickel.com/en-us/

Follow Storz and Bickel and Jürgen Bickel on Instagram:

S&B: @ Storz.Bickel

Jürgen: @ Jurgen_Bickel

Want Exclusive Content and ad-free episodes?

Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your burning questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more expert insights into cannabis science, plant biology, and more!

Thank you to the sponsors of this episode, including General Hyrdoponics trusted by growers for over 40 years, General Hydroponics’ Flora Series is the gold standard in hydro nutrients. Consistent, powerful, and proven in the lab and the field, because your plants deserve nothing less. Learn more and find products at https://generalhydroponics.com/. And special shoutout to HiNote for making our trip to MaryJane Berlin possible!

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

Devin Melnyk: From Grower to Cannabis Tech Start Up Aug 08, 2025

Show notes

Devin Melnyk shares his journey from the gray market of cannabis cultivation to working with one of the largest licensed producers in Canada. He discusses the evolution of the cannabis industry, the differences between the Canadian and U.S. markets, and the importance of community in cannabis culture. Devin also tells us about the new HiNote app, designed to help users track their cannabis experiences and connect with others in the community.

Find out more about HiNote:

https://www.hinote.ai/

https://www.instagram.com/hinote.ai/

✨ Want Exclusive Content?

Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your burning questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more expert insights into cannabis science, plant biology, and more!

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

Cannabis is Personalized Medicine with Lauren Avenius at Mary Jane Berlin Jul 25, 2025

Show notes

This week we are headed to Germany, this podcast was recorded at the world's largest cannabis expo called Mary Jane Berlin. I had the opportunity to jointly host and record a podcast with Lauren Avenius, the CEO of Node Labs. She is doing some ground breaking work with cannabis breeding and genetics and is doing an amazing job connecting people across the industry. Her work also encompasses other companies like Four20Pharma and Compound Genetics.

This conversation covers everything from strain specific effects, understanding dosing and consumption methods, and how our own genetics and the plant genetics may influence our experience.

Thank you to our sponsor for this episode GAVITA: For over 40 years, Gavita has been the trusted name in horticultural lighting, setting the benchmark for performance, reliability, and innovation. ⁠https://gavita.com/category/led-grow-lights/⁠ IG: @gavitanorthamerica

Enter the MaryJane x Node Labs Giveaway

https://forms.gle/nex2aBdDB4JT7g6D6

Follow lauren on Instagram and LinkedIn:

@Lavenius

https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenavenius/

✨ Want Exclusive Content?

Join the Bioactive Patreon community for as little as $1/month to ask guests your burning questions, access exclusive content, and connect with Dr. Kirk one-on-one.⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.Patreon.com/Cannabichem⁠⁠⁠⁠

🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more expert insights into cannabis science, plant biology, and more!

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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