BIOACTIVE

Latest Episodes:

How Animals Medicate with Dr. Jaap De Roode Jul 11, 2025

Show notes

In this conversation, host Dr. Riley Kirk and guest Dr. Jaap De Roode discuss the fascinating field of zoo pharmacognosy, exploring how animals medicate themselves using natural substances. He shares insights from his research on monarch butterflies and honeybees, highlighting the role of toxic compounds and fungi in animal health. The discussion also touches on the implications for agriculture, the importance of biodiversity, and the potential for learning from animal behaviors in medicine. Dr. De Roode emphasizes the need for more research in this area and the significance of maintaining natural ecosystems for the health of both animals and humans.

Key Takeaways

Zoo pharmacognosy is the study of how animals medicate themselves.

Monarch butterflies use toxic milkweed compounds to combat parasites.

Honeybees may use fungi to treat infections in their colonies.

Animal medication can be a learned behavior or instinctual response.

Diversity in diet is crucial for animal health and resilience.

Propolis serves as both a cement and a medicinal substance for bees.

Observational studies provide insights into animal medication behaviors.

Animals can change their behavior based on their health needs.

Research on animal medication can inform agricultural practices.

Understanding animal medication can lead to new discoveries in human medicine.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Zoo Pharmacognosy

04:08 Research Focus: Monarch Butterflies and Honeybees

10:58 Defining Animal Medication vs. Self-Medication

14:59 Examples of Animal Medication in Nature

18:20 Chimpanzees and Traditional Healing

24:38 Learning and Sharing Medicinal Knowledge in Animals

26:14 The Fascinating World of Animal Self-Medication

28:53 Agricultural Practices and Animal Health

32:38 The Importance of Choice and Diversity in Animal Diets

33:37 Studying Animal Behavior and Medicating Practices

35:56 Recreational Use of Plants by Animals

40:56 Addressing Animal Anxiety and Depression

43:52 Natural Products in Animal Medicating

46:21 Evolution of Medicating Behaviors in Animals

48:21 Cannabis and Animal Self-Medication

51:31 Researching Fungi and Bees

55:20 Insights from 'Doctors by Nature'

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

Follow Dr. De Roode’s research:

https://biology.emory.edu/people/bios/faculty/de-roode-jaap.html

Follow Dr. De Roode on IG and LinkedIn

IG @jaapderoode

LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaap-de-roode-04a6a6237/

Read or listen to Doctors by Nature

https://www.amazon.com/Doctors-Nature-Other-Animals-Themselves/dp/069123924X

Check out my book Reefer Wellness!

⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Reefer-Wellness-Understanding-Cannabis-Medicine/dp/0593847156⁠⁠⁠

✨ 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/⁠⁠⁠

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#NAPTIME with Dr. Miyabe Shields: Exploring Cannabis Science and Community Jun 27, 2025

Show notes

Join us for a deep dive into the world of cannabis science with Dr. Miyabe Shields and host Dr. Riley Kirk cofounders of the Network of Applied Pharmacognosy. NAP is a nonprofit focused on studying the real world uses of cannabis and other natural products as well as the biochemical mechanisms. In this episode, we discuss the latest updates on biochemistry projects, the importance of enzymes in the endocannabinoid system, and the exciting findings from the Science of Smokability study. Discover how community insights are shaping research and the future of cannabis as a medicine. The role of enzymes in the endocannabinoid system. Understanding cannabis puff profiles, The impact of water activity on cannabis quality, Community-driven research and advocacy Upcoming projects and collaborations #CannabisScience #EndocannabinoidSystem #NAPTIMEPodcast #CannabisResearch #CommunityAdvocacy Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction to NAPTIME Bioactive Podcast 2:00 - Overview of the Network of Applied Pharmacognosy 5:15 - Discussion on Biochemistry and Endocannabinoid System 12:30 - Importance of Enzymes in Cannabis Interaction 13:00 - Science of Smokability: Water Activity and Quality 20:45 - Community Insights and Research Advocacy 30:00 - Discussion on Cannabis Strain-Specific Effects 35:20 - Chemical Diversity Theory and Its Implications 40:00 - Personal Experiences and Anecdotes 45:30 - Upcoming Projects and Collaborations 50:00 - Challenges in Cannabis Research and Advocacy 55:15 - Conclusion and Call to Action 58:00 - Closing Remarks and Thank You Sign Up For NAP’s Email List/Newsletter or Donate: www.AppliedPharmacognosy.org Read the Science of Smokeability Paper https://www.cannabissciencetech.com/view/impact-of-water-activity-on-the-chemical-composition-and-smoking-quality-of-cannabis-flower-the-science-of-smokability-phase-i-results Order my book Reefer Wellness! ⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Reefer-Wellness-Understanding-Cannabis-Medicine/dp/0593847156⁠⁠⁠ ✨ 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/⁠⁠⁠

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Cannabis, Pregnancy, Fertility and Breastfeeding: A neuropharmacologist’s perspective with Dr. Michele Ross Jun 13, 2025

Show notes

In this conversation, Dr. Michele Ross discusses the complexities of cannabis use during pregnancy, sharing her personal experiences and insights as a neuropharmacologist and fibromyalgia patient. The discussion highlights the lack of comprehensive research on the effects of cannabis, the comparative safety of cannabis versus traditional medications, and the stigma surrounding its use. Dr. Ross emphasizes the importance of advocacy, education, and support systems, including the role of doulas, in navigating the challenges faced by pregnant women considering cannabis as a treatment option. In this conversation, Dr. Michele Ross discusses the complexities of cannabis use during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and its effects on fertility and mental health. She emphasizes the importance of conscious use, tracking consumption, and the potential benefits and risks associated with cannabis. The discussion also touches on tapering off cannabis and pharmaceuticals, exploring other medicinal plants, and the need for community support among mothers. Dr. Ross highlights the lack of solid research on long-term effects of cannabis exposure and encourages individuals to seek personalized care from qualified professionals.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Context Setting

05:01 The Role of Cannabis in Women's Health

10:13 Understanding Risks and Benefits of Cannabis During Pregnancy

14:59 Comparative Analysis: Cannabis vs. Traditional Medications

19:47 The Importance of Research and Anecdotal Evidence

25:03 Addressing Stigma and Misconceptions

30:11 The Future of Cannabis Research in Pregnancy

31:23 Legal Complexities of Cannabis Use During Pregnancy

36:36 Navigating Stigma and Support in Cannabis Use

41:40 The Role of Doulas and Healthcare Professionals

46:01 Tapering Cannabis Use and Consumption Methods

56:00 Understanding Cannabis and Fertility

01:02:04 Breastfeeding and Cannabis: Safety and Concerns

01:05:26 The Role of Cannabinoids in Breast Milk Production

01:08:40 Exploring Other Natural Remedies for Mothers

01:10:40 The Future of Botanical Medicine in Motherhood

01:13:12 Mental Health, SSRIs, and Cannabis Interactions

01:18:31 Long-term Effects of Cannabis Exposure on Children

01:21:38 Resources for Expecting and New Mothers

Follow Dr.Ross;

Instagram and LinkedIn @MicheleRoss

Check out Dr. Ross’s amazing books & learn more!

https://drmicheleross.com/books/

Order my book Reefer Wellness!

⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Reefer-Wellness-Understanding-Cannabis-Medicine/dp/0593847156⁠⁠⁠

✨ Want Exclusive Content?

🔔 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/⁠⁠⁠

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What Happens When A Stoner Scientist Gets Pregnant... My Journey So Far May 30, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Riley Kirk shares her personal journey through pregnancy, focusing on her experiences with cannabis use, tapering down her consumption, and the emotional and physical changes she faced.

She discusses the importance of mental health during this time, the role of her supportive partner, and the diagnosis of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP). The conversation also touches on the gender reveal process and the complexities of navigating a high-risk pregnancy. In this conversation, Riley Kirk shares her personal journey with Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP), a rare liver condition that can occur during pregnancy. She discusses the emotional and physical challenges she faced, the medical treatments available, and the lifestyle changes she made to manage her symptoms.

Riley emphasizes the importance of mental health support and community during this difficult time, and reflects on her experiences as a pregnant woman in the cannabis community. She also expresses gratitude for the support she received from friends and family, and looks forward to continuing the conversation about women's health and pregnancy in future episodes.

THE MAIN TAKEAWAY OF THIS EPISODE IS TO BE YOUR OWN ADVOCATE DURING PREGNANCY. PHYSICIANS KNOW A LOT BUT YOU ARE THE EXPERT ON YOUR OWN BODY.

(THERE'S ALSO A SECRET SEED GIVEAWAY IF YOU CLICK THE PATREON LINK)

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Pregnancy Journey and Cannabis Use

03:11 Discovering Pregnancy and Initial Reactions

05:55 Tapering Down Cannabis Consumption

08:48 Methods of Consumption and Personal Preferences

12:01 Managing Migraines and Mental Health During Pregnancy

15:11 The Role of Supportive Partners

18:00 Gender Reveal and Early Testing

20:51 High-Risk Pregnancy and ICP Diagnosis

27:14 Understanding Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP)

30:00 The Emotional Toll of High-Risk Pregnancy

33:07 Treatment Options and Medical Anomalies

35:53 Lifestyle Changes and Natural Remedies

40:09 Mental Health and Support During Pregnancy

44:01 Reflections on Pregnancy and Community Support

49:00 Looking Ahead: Future Topics and Conversations

Preorder my book Reefer Wellness!

⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Reefer-Wellness-Understanding-Cannabis-Medicine/dp/0593847156⁠⁠⁠

✨ Want Exclusive Content?

🔔 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/⁠⁠⁠

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The Amazing Coevolution of Monarch Butterflies and Milkweed Plants with Dr. Anurag Agrawal May 16, 2025

Show notes

In this conversation, Host Dr. Riley Kirk and Dr. Anurag Agrawal discuss the intricate relationship between monarch butterflies and milkweed, exploring themes of coevolution, chemical ecology, and the ecological arms race. He explains how monarchs have adapted to survive the toxic compounds in milkweed, the challenges they face due to habitat destruction and pesticides, and the importance of conservation efforts. The discussion highlights the fascinating dynamics of species interactions and the need for community involvement in preserving biodiversity.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Monarchs and Milkweed

06:32 The Co-evolutionary Dance

11:32 Monarchs vs. Milkweed: The Arms Race

20:14 The Role of Cardiac Glycosides

30:01 Sequestration and Survival Strategies

31:37 The Journey of Monarch Butterflies

37:30 Understanding Monarch Population Decline

46:49 Human Impact on Monarchs and Conservation Efforts

54:01 Exploring Other Fascinating Insects

Follow Dr.Agrawal’s research:

https://ecologyandevolution.cornell.edu/anurag-agrawal

https://agrawal.eeb.cornell.edu/

Read or listen to Monarchs and Milkweed

https://www.amazon.com/Monarchs-Milkweed-Migrating-Remarkable-Coevolution/dp/0691166358

Preorder my book Reefer Wellness!

⁠⁠https://www.amazon.com/Reefer-Wellness-Understanding-Cannabis-Medicine/dp/0593847156⁠⁠

✨ 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

Figuring out how THC works in the brain with Dr. Allyn Howlett May 02, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Allyn Howlett—renowned neuroscientist and pioneer in cannabinoid research—shares her groundbreaking journey into the study of cannabis and the discovery of the CB1 receptor. Originally focused on neuronal hormones, Dr. Howlett recounts how her curiosity led to one of the most pivotal findings in medical cannabis science: the identification of the brain’s first cannabinoid receptor.

She dives into the mechanisms of THC, the function of cannabinoid receptors in the brain and body, and the discovery of the endocannabinoid system. The conversation explores the historical development of cannabinoid research, the barriers posed by the pharmaceutical industry, and the evolving relationship between academia and drug development.

Dr. Howlett also discusses the future of cannabinoid science—including targeted therapies, pain relief, and the medical potential of cannabis compounds. This episode offers an essential look at the scientific foundation behind cannabis medicine and its impact on legalization, healthcare, and public perception.

🔬 Keywords: CB1 receptor, endocannabinoid system, THC, cannabis research, Dr. Allyn Howlett, cannabinoid receptors, medical cannabis, neuroscience, cannabis and pain relief, cannabis legalization, targeted cannabinoid therapies.

Follow Dr.Howlett's research:

https://school.wakehealth.edu/faculty/h/allyn-howlett

Preorder my book Reefer Wellness!

⁠https://www.amazon.com/Reefer-Wellness-Understanding-Cannabis-Medicine/dp/0593847156⁠

✨ 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

The Science Behind how CBD Works in the Brain with guest Dr. Josh Kaplan Apr 18, 2025

Show notes

In this conversation, Dr. Riley Kirk and Dr. Josh Kaplan delve into the complexities of cannabis research, particularly focusing on CBD and its therapeutic potential for conditions like epilepsy. Dr. Kaplan shares his journey into cannabis research, highlighting the significance of understanding CBD's mechanisms, the role of GPR55 in seizure management, and the challenges of dosing CBD effectively. They also discuss the entourage effect, the importance of personalized medicine, and the ongoing research into terpenes and their interactions with cannabinoids. The conversation emphasizes the need for further exploration in cannabis research to develop safe and effective therapies, especially for vulnerable populations like children. In this conversation, Josh Kaplan discusses the therapeutic potential of CBD, particularly in relation to traumatic brain injuries and neurodegenerative diseases. He emphasizes the safety of CBD compared to THC and explores its role in preventative treatments. The conversation also delves into ongoing clinical trials, particularly within the NFL, and the challenges faced in cannabis research, including dosing and the variability of individual responses to cannabinoids. Kaplan highlights the importance of understanding the entourage effect and the need for more personalized approaches in cannabis treatment.

More about Dr. Kaplan:

Dr. Kaplan is an Associate Professor in the Behavioral Neuroscience Program. His expertise is in neurophysiology, neuropharmacology, and animal behavior techniques, which his lab uses to study the therapeutic benefits and developmental consequences of cannabis in pre-clinical rodent models. His research seeks to optimize cannabinoid and terpene compositions to maximize benefit and minimize adverse consequences.

Dr. Kaplan has a strong passion for teaching and communicating science. His scientific writing specializes in the science of cannabis and its medicinal utility. He was included in High Times' 100 Most Influential People in Cannabis (2018) and Cannabis Newsletter's Top 100 (2021).

Follow Dr.Kaplan’s research:

https://wp.wwu.edu/kaplanlab/

Preorder my book Reefer Wellness!

https://www.amazon.com/Reefer-Wellness-Understanding-Cannabis-Medicine/dp/0593847156

Seed Giveaway

Thank you to Royal Queen Seeds and Last Green Valley Seeds for donating to this week's giveaway! To enter, fill out the form below, winners will be selected at random.

https://forms.gle/1vWtsBMGaux9x5Mf6

✨ 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/

Timestamps: