Author: Dani

Psilocybin, if you are not already familiar, is the active ingredient in magic mushrooms, which elicits powerful hallucinogenic effects when ingested. 

The potential of psychedelics in medicine was recognised early on, and despite being made illegal, research persisted to give us the breakthroughs we have today. The reason I bring this up, is not to talk about psychedelics, but rather to highlight the fact that an unsuspecting little mushroom can have such an immense impact on the brain’s neurochemistry. It leads one to consider, what about all the other fantastic fungi being foraged in the forests?

A variety of different mushroom species have been used in traditional Eastern medicine for millennia, and extracts of the turkey tail mushroom have been used in mainstream cancer treatments in Japan since the 1970s. So it is no surprise that so-called medicinal mushroom extracts have been all the rage in alternative medicine circles, and that there is currently a booming global mushroom supplement market, enough to rival even Super Mario’s mushroom kingdom. Like any other trend in the wellness world, it is imperative for those of us in healthcare to have a look at the science before recommending anything with confidence.

As it turns out, there has been a variety of research into mushroom extracts with varying results, and we have done our best to summarise these findings for some of the more common mushroom species on the market.

Turkey tail has been widely studied, and research in humans and animals shows that one of its components, polysaccharide-K, may stimulate the immune system. In clinical trials, turkey tail supplements seemed to improve survival for people with colon and gastric cancer. 

A number of other clinical trials showed that the compound, lentinan, derived from shiitake mushrooms, may extend survival in patients with, prostate, stomach, liver and colorectal cancers when combined with chemotherapy. Both these compounds are approved in Japan as an addition to the mainstream treatments for treating cancer.

Clinical trials of lion’s mane extracts showed improved cognitive test scores in elderly people with mild cognitive impairment, and benefits for those with mild Alzheimer’s disease. It is important to note however that these trials had less than 20 participants and involved researchers working for mushroom supplement companies.

Reishi mushrooms are another common variety of fungi that have been used historically for a variety of ailments. A number of human trials with reishi have found benefits for patients with type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and cancer. Again the findings, while promising, are still lacking the level of evidence required to make a solid conclusion for the effectiveness of these supplements. 

In mouse studies, some research has found that Chaga mushroom extract may help with learning and memory, reducing inflammation, increasing exercise endurance and lowering blood sugar—although, there is very little supporting information about these effects in humans. 

Cordyceps mushrooms, made famous in the video game and TV series, The Last of Us, for turning humans into zombies, have been reported to work as an anti-depressant (amongst other things) however, none of the claims have any adequate supporting clinical trials.

As is evident from the ongoing studies, we still have a long way to go before we can effectively use medicinal mushroom extracts in a proper clinical setting—but the research certainly shows a lot of potential benefits. 

Modern medicine is based generally on a single-molecule approach, where a single compound is identified, extracted, and used to treat an illness. We can assess a method of action, adjust doses according to response, and figure out a therapeutic dosing regimen. 

Mushrooms and their extracts contain hundreds of different compounds and depending on how they have been cultivated, different batches may have differing amounts of certain chemicals and thus inconsistent effects. Therefore, it is important to take a lot of the embellished claims made by these manufacturers with a grain of salt.

Relative to many other alternative medicine products, the information we do have for medicinal mushrooms is generally quite impressive. We cannot forget that there are antibiotics and cholesterol-lowering medications that we use daily that were originally derived from fungus, and perhaps with more clinical research we can unlock more medical magic from these mushrooms. 

If you are not allergic to mushrooms, and are looking for supplements with a bit more information behind them, then talk to your pharmacist or book in with our Naturopath to discuss medicinal mushroom extracts and whether they may be suitable for you.

References:

Mushroom magic: why the latest health fad might be on to something

Teresa Carr, The Guardian, Thu 17 Jan 2019

Functional fungi: can medicinal mushrooms really improve people’s health?

Nic Fleming, The Guardian, Mon 30 Oct 2023

Int J Mol Sci. 2021 Jan 10;22(2):634. doi: 10.3390/ijms22020634
Medicinal Mushrooms: Bioactive Compounds, Use, and Clinical Trials
Giuseppe Venturella ^1,*, Valeria Ferraro ¹, Fortunato Cirlincione ¹, Maria Letizia Gargano ²

On the 27th of November 2024, the Australian Greens Party presented their Bill to Legalise Cannabis to the Senate. Led by David Shoebridge, the Bill proposed legalisation of cannabis for adult-use, not just within a medical framework. 

Ultimately, the majority of Senators in the Australian Federal Parliament voted to block the bill: 24 “against”, and 13 “for”. 

In what may feel like a standstill in progress to break the stigma around cannabis, we asked Pharmacist and Content Writer Nour for his view and opinion on the future of cannabis legalisation in Australia:

When we speak about cannabis, particularly in the context of legalisation and decriminalisation, there is a habit of clumping cannabis use into one of two categories: either medicinal or recreational.  Apparently humanity has devolved into needing to reduce everything down to a binary before we choose to understand it. I reject this classification, we never think of caffeine as either for fun or function, it exists to enjoy and to help.  It is both things, and quite frankly, I feel the same about cannabis

“I reject this classification, we never think of caffeine as either for fun or function, it exists to enjoy and to help.  It is both things, and quite frankly, I feel the same about cannabis.” 

Nour – Pharmacist & Content Writer 

Humanity has come a long way in the last century and we now have quite advanced scientific methodologies to help us quantify the potential risks of certain behaviours and substances.  As it stands, every metric for drug safety shows cannabis to be safer than alcohol, so logically and scientifically speaking, we should have no problem with it. Yet, it seems some do have a problem with it. Frustratingly, there is still so much controversy and stigma associated with cannabis. And, as seen in the Senate debate this week, our more conservative politicians are more concerned about appeasing their constituents rather than trying to work towards the greater good.

The reality is, cannabis is still subjected to so much political and social discrimination – and it is patients who suffer from this prejudice. In Australia, there are patients awaiting a trial for driving with THC in their system. A trial for a medication that has been prescribed by their doctor. Many of them were not “stoned”, or impaired whilst driving – merely traces of THC lingering in their system because that is the nature of THC. THC can often linger around for a while while having no effect on the individual.  In 2022-23 over 7,000 Victorians were charged for presence alone, compared to around 100 charged for impairment. Thus, while it may not seem important to many people, cannabis decriminalisation is in fact a step towards justice.

Cannabis has been used for millennia, in a variety of different ways.  It was used medically, spiritually and recreationally with seemingly no issues surrounding this overly exaggerated notion that it may be a harm to society.  Part of the reason we do not have the body of research for medicinal cannabis that we have for other medications is because of its illegal status in most countries for the last century.  This politically motivated ban has literally been a hindrance to actual scientific research that may have helped a countless number of people with their lives.  We have learnt over the years, and particularly from the example of prohibition of alcohol in the USA, that criminalising substances does not always solve problems of drug abuse. Here in Australia, the Australian Capital Territory, where limited cannabis decriminalisation was implemented in January 2020,a review in August 2024 showed these reforms have nearly eliminated cannabis-related offences in the ACT. In many scenarios, like that of cannabis, regulation may in fact have better outcomes for our society as a whole.  Even from a state-centric perspective, regulation means reducing the impact of illegal markets while allowing everyone to benefit from legal trade and taxation.

Current governments in Australia have been quick to respond to anything they deem too difficult by just banning it.  We have the wildly controversial ban on vapes, even when cigarettes are still readily available and now there are talks of the government considering a ban on social media for children.  What I see here are lazy lawmakers, who want simple solutions but have no vested interest in putting in work for the future.  Society changes and new challenges arise, and just sweeping them under the rug does not make them disappear.  So whether cannabis is medicinal or otherwise, is irrelevant.  It is a plant, grown in the ground for thousands of years, and has always been around – restricting it has done nothing but drive people back to the black market. So, the real problem here is poor policy making. 

Cannabis exists, and always has, and what we need is a movement to embrace it and facilitate it safely for people who need it, and people who want it.  Life is not easy for many of us, but there are a variety of things the universe provides to us to help us get through and for many people, cannabis just happens to be one of them.  

Good and bad, are relative terms and are ever-changing.  When faced with new challenges regarding these perceived moral questions, we as a people and as governments need to analyse scientifically and empirically the harms and benefits they pose and approach them with an open mind.  

When confronting the unknown we often respond from a place of fear. But, at some point we collectively (paraphrasing Louisa May Alcott) have to stop being afraid of storms – we must unite and learn how to sail the ship. Let’s legalise cannabis, once and for all.

This was a campaign run by the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, and featured such lines as, “The reasons so many doctors prefer Camels are the same reason you’ll prefer Camels mildness and flavour.” Fast forward a couple of decades and tobacco smoking has been linked to not only airway and heart disease, but a risk factor for almost every type of cancer.

It goes without saying that your local doctor is not out there spruiking for cigarette companies anymore. In fact, advertising for tobacco is heavily regulated and restricted in most countries. Where once smoking was normalised, all medical professionals now agree that quitting smoking is effectively one of the best things smokers can do to reduce their risk of severe illness—and there are a variety of options available to help them overcome the addiction. Nicotine replacement therapy in the form of patches, gums and sprays has been commonplace for some time, as well as a couple of pharmaceutical options.

Then the vape came along, initially introduced as another instrument in the toolbelt of smoking cessation, except that it was cool and colourful and tasted like watermelons and raspberries and rainbows and bad decisions. Nicotine is one of the most addictive substances known to man, and while we use it to get people off harmful tobacco smoking, packaging it in shiny colourful tubes with flavours such as double apple and lush ice is likely to attract a crowd.

Inevitably this has resulted in an entire group of people newly addicted to nicotine who were not previously smokers. Vapes have found themselves all over high schools around the country, which has forced the government to step in. Now, we do not have the kind of information about the harms of vaping that we do about cigarettes, but one thing we have learnt since 1946 is to not wait until we have a cancer ward full of smokers before we do something about it.

This has resulted in the heavily publicised banning of the importation and sales of vapes and vaping hardware from tobacconists around the country with fines in the millions for transgressors. Many doctors, however, agree that despite the harms of vaping, what we can ascertain from the information we do have is that they are still safer alternatives to smoking tobacco. Whilst certain vapes have been available on prescription from doctors for some time, as of the 1st of October, low-dose nicotine vapes (20mg/mL or less) are now accessible over the counter from pharmacies following consultation with a pharmacist.

This won’t mean that rebellious youth can wag school to go to the pharmacy and buy vapes. They will only be available to current smokers or vapers who are over 18, and the only flavours available are mint, menthol, tobacco and unflavoured. One of the other issues with black market vapes is a lack of transparency with the ingredients and nicotine strength. The vapes accessible from pharmacies all use pharmaceutical-grade ingredients and there is a lot more transparency about what is in them and the actual amount of nicotine, which makes it easier to work towards actually quitting.

If you are struggling with a smoking addiction and other nicotine replacement options have failed you, or if you hit a vape once at a party and now throw a tantrum when your vape gets lost in the couch, pharmaceutical vaping options may be a suitable alternative. Speak to one of our pharmacists today to discuss what smoking cessation options may be best for you.  

Naturopathy is one of the many buzzwords you might hear walking around Melbourne’s inner north, alongside phrases like ‘single origin’ and ‘ethical non-monogamy’. However, this trendy natural medicine approach has been around since humanity learnt they were not invincible. So what exactly do we mean, when we say naturopathy and how does it fit in with modern medicine?

Naturopathy is often referred to as an alternative medicine, which is a diplomatic way to say that it is not backed by the same level of scientific evidence as mainstream medicine.  However, as pharmacists, we see how natural medicines such as naturopathy and nutraceuticals can play a huge role in modern day healthcare. There have been centuries of evidence for traditional and herbal medicines. Moreover, so much of our modern medicine has been derived and/or inspired by compounds that have existed in nature. 

This has become evident with the rise of medicinal cannabis prescribing, where a formerly banned substance and a millenia old alternative medicine is now being prescribed by medical doctors and dispensed by pharmacists, despite not having the same strength of evidence we require for what we deem mainstream therapies.

Which brings us back to what place naturopathy plays in conjunction with medicine as a whole. As pharmacists, we are often painted as being in opposition to naturopaths, despite pharmacies selling millions of dollars worth of vitamins and supplements every year—which, again, do not have the strong evidence we demand of pharmaceutical drugs. Which is to say, pharmacists have been working with naturopathy for a long time, whether we like to admit it or not. 

As you can see, naturopathy is not so straightforward to generalise, however the simplest way to define it is as a variety of practices that are deemed natural, non-invasive and promote self-healing. Naturopathy often gets a bad wrap because there are practitioners who will often engage in discredited pseudoscientific practices such as homoeopathy or colonic irrigation and this often gets conflated with naturopathy as a whole. Hence, as health professionals, it is our responsibility to help make these distinctions and assist patients to make informed decisions that do not interfere with their established medical care.

Naturopathy can involve herbal and nutritional supplements, dietary advice, and lifestyle advice, all of which can be safely used and are often important adjuncts to conventional medicine where patients have reported benefits for weight loss, endometriosis and insomnia alongside a variety of mild to moderate conditions. When we think of medicine, we are generally referring to healing illness. Although we preach the idea of holistic healthcare, we seldom do enough to promote the practices that prevent diseases and improve wellbeing.  This is perhaps where naturopathic practices can prove to be most beneficial, as there tends to be more focus on the idea of the individual rather than the ‘illness’. Combined with guidance from doctors and pharmacists, this allows for a scope of practice that is safe and works to encourage people to take care of themselves without the sometimes invasive and sterile feeling aspects of a medical clinic.

You should always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any treatments to ensure there are no interactions with your current therapies, and remember natural medicine in any form is never going to be the only solution. It can be an effective additional means of therapy for many people but ultimately, it needs to be considered in the bigger picture of one’s health and not relied on solely. 

For those out there wanting to find natural ways to look after themselves, but are concerned about too many interventions, an appointment with a naturopath might be for you. You can begin with a complimentary 10 minute call with one of our nurses, or you can book directly with our naturopath today.  

Astrid has always been passionate about progressing the research into relief of chronic pain, and we help many patients who suffer from Endometriosis.

We are so pleased to be working with Western Sydney University on two Endometriosis Clinical Trials. The EndoCann trials will explore two types of medicinal cannabis products on the symptoms of endometriosis.

If you are aged over 18 and have a diagnosis of endometriosis, you may be eligible to participate. If you or someone you know is interested in participating, please reach out to us today at hello@astrid.health.

Spread the word and be part of a hopeful future with greater pain relief. 

What is a Clinical Trial?

A clinical trial tests new treatments to see if they’re safe and effective. The EndoCann trial is studying medicinal cannabis to manage endometriosis pain. 

What is medicinal cannabis?

Medicinal cannabis is the use of the cannabis plant or its extracts for medical purposes. It contains compounds called cannabinoids (CBD, THC)  that can help relieve symptoms like pain, inflammation and others. For women with endometriosis, medicinal cannabis may be a treatment option when traditional medications don’t provide enough relief from pain and other symptoms. 

Why You Should Join a Clinical Trial?

If you’re dealing with endometriosis pain, this trial might help you find relief. You’ll get to try new treatments that could ease your symptoms, with expert doctors supporting you along the way—completely free. While it may not work for everyone, it’s a step toward feeling better and improving your day-to-day life.

What’s involved?

You’ll start with an initial assessment, including a doctor’s visit, blood tests, and an ultrasound. 

Then, you’ll be placed in one of three groups—CBD-only oil, a balanced THC oil, or a placebo (no active ingredients). Over six months, you’ll track your symptoms using a smartphone app and have follow-ups like blood tests and optional ultrasounds.

Can anyone participate?

You must be 18 or older, live in or be able to travel to Sydney, and have a confirmed diagnosis of endometriosis from tests like laparoscopy, MRI, or ultrasound. You also shouldn’t have used cannabis in the last three months. For more details, check the eligibility requirements!

Where can I find more information?

You can learn more about the clinical trial here.

As of October 1, 2024, Australia has implemented significant changes to its vaping laws aimed at both protecting young Australians and the wider community from the risks associated with vaping, and making therapeutic nicotine vapes more accessible to adults. 

These reforms support individuals seeking to start their smoking cessation journey or manage nicotine dependence while ensuring that therapeutic vapes are available for those who need them in clinical situations.

These new regulations allow for the purchase of vapes with nicotine concentrations up to 20 mg/mL without a prescription for eligible adults over the age of 18. 

Why Astrid is offering a Smoking & Vaping Cessation Service

At Astrid, we believe holistic health is a journey and we are here to support you. Whether you’re looking to quit smoking or would like to explore alternative nicotine dependency pathways, we recognise every cessation journey is different.

Astrid’s friendly, highly-trained pharmacists will have a chat with you and determine your eligibility, if nicotine vapes (up to 20 mg/mL) are right for you, offer personalised advice, and support you on your path to smoking cessation. 

Keeping in mind, therapeutic vapes are one of many options, and whilst not necessarily a first line of treatment for smoking cessation, it is certainly one most often enquired about. 

To help you navigate the changing laws, we’re here to answer some of your frequently asked questions:

• What is the process for accessing over-the-counter nicotine vapes?
  1. Eligibility Screening: Your eligibility for nicotine vaping products is assessed with a 30-second questionnaire
  2. Pharmacist Consultation: If eligible, you can visit or call our pharmacists who will provide guidance on safe usage and offer support for your smoking cessation journey
  3. Products Dispensed: Once approved, the pharmacist will dispense the appropriate nicotine vaping products

• What are therapeutic vapes, and how are they used?
  • Therapeutic vapes are vaping products used to aid in smoking cessation or to manage nicotine dependence. From 1 October 2024, pharmacists will be able to supply these products without a prescription under specific conditions.

• Do I need a prescription to get a nicotine vape?
  • No, from 1 October 2024, patients aged 18 years or over will no longer need a prescription to access vapes with less than 20 mg/ml nicotine (if eligible).

• What do I need to provide to buy a therapeutic vape?
  • You will need to provide evidence of your age and identity, as nicotine vapes can only be supplied to people aged 18 years or older; you will need to meet eligibility criteria.

• Will the pharmacist give me advice on how to use a therapeutic vape?
  • Yes, pharmacists will provide advice. They will also inform you about alternative cessation therapies and smoking cessation support services.

• How much vape liquid can I buy?
  • Pharmacists can only supply up to 1 month’s supply of vaping liquid.

• What nicotine strength can I purchase without a prescription?
  • The nicotine concentration in therapeutic vapes must not exceed 20 mg/mL. If you require a higher concentration, a prescription from a doctor or nurse practitioner is required. See QuitRx website for more information.

• Can someone under 18 purchase a vape?
  • No, therapeutic vapes cannot be supplied to individuals under 18 years old, unless prescribed by a medical or nurse practitioner.

We know every cessation journey is different, and are proud to offer a supportive and informative service. If you have more questions, feel free to ask your pharmacist at Astrid Dispensary.

Get started on your smoking and vaping cessation journey today: https://astrid.clinic/smoking-cessation-services/ 

All information is accurate at the time of publication: 8th October 2024

Vapes have not been assessed for safety and efficacy and are considered unregistered goods by the TGA. Access more information from The Vaping Hub (TGA).

Can you share what a naturopath’s role looks like and how it contributes to our holistic approach?

A naturopath will ask in-depth questions about your body systems related to your health concerns, as well as investigate aspects of your life such as diet, exercise, hobbies, and family history. This comprehensive approach provides insight into the many factors that could be contributing to your state of health, allowing us to address the root causes of issues. Our treatments include food as medicine, herbal medicine, nutritional supplementation, and lifestyle advice.

What do you think people need to know about naturopathy and its role in holistic health?

It is definitely important that people know that although Naturopathy is a form of natural medicine, it doesn’t mean that treatments we use aren’t evidence based. Australian Naturopaths are regulated by a governing body such as Naturopaths & Herbalists Association of Australia (NHAA), and they hold Bachelor’s in Health Science majoring in Naturopathy.

Naturopathy plays a significant role in holistic health and upholds six core principles:

• First Do No Harm
• The Healing Power of Nature
• Identify and Treat the Causes
• Doctor as Teacher
• Treat the Whole Person
• Prevention

How do you navigate any stigma or challenges associated with naturopathy in the broader healthcare industry?

As mentioned previously, Australian Naturopaths hold Bachelor’s in Health Science and are heavily regulated. Ensuring people know this definitely helps to reduce some of the stigma associated with Naturopathy and natural medicine. I feel that it is also so important to continue to educate patients on natural medicine and to just keep advocating! I think it is only uphill from here.

How do you stay up to date with the latest industry updates, research, and developments in natural medicine/therapy?

I stay current by attending annual symposiums and regularly participating in webinars hosted by other practitioners or naturopathic associations. I also read journal articles and enjoy discussing new research with colleagues from my university studies.

What do you hope for the future of natural therapy?

I hope that in the future natural medicine starts to get more recognition for it is – effective! I really hope for more clinical trials and other quality research to prove the efficiency herbal medicine has on treating various conditions and the quality of life it can provide to patients.

If you work directly with patients, can you share a story of how natural medicine has positively impacted someone’s life?

I have seen natural medicine positively impact so many people’s lives. The first that comes to mind are my Endometriosis patients. Various natural treatments have been widely studied regarding their anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and hepatoprotective capabilities for Endometriosis. Through using the natural approach, I have seen a great deal of positive changes with the patients mental health, as well as a reduction in their pain and inflammation. I have also seen positive changes with their liver function – the liver is a key part of treating Endometriosis as we need the liver to be functioning optimally so oestrogen is not being poorly metabolised and being reabsorbed in the body, as this can lead to an increase in endometriosis flare up due to it being an oestrogen dominant condition.

We’re proud to have such a dedicated naturopath on our team, whose commitment to evidence-based practices and patient empowerment aligns perfectly with our holistic vision. Her passion for natural medicine and her proactive approach to health are valuable assets to Astrid, and we look forward to the positive impact she will continue to make on our patients’ lives.

Book a naturopathy appointment with Georgina here.