Rethinking Wellness: Unlocking the Power of the ECS and Cannabinoid Science
Mar 03, 2025
Host: Debi Wimberley- Founder of the Effective Cannabis Newsletter
Guest: Miyabe Shields, Ph.D and Riley D. Kirk, Ph.D
What You’ll Learn from This Conversation: This conversation dives into the crucial role of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) in maintaining health, why it remains overlooked in modern medicine, and how scientific advancements are uncovering its potential. Scientists Miyabe Sheilds and Riley D. Kirk join Debi to discuss age-related ECS changes, targeted cannabinoid interventions, and how research with lived experiences could revolutionize how we approach chronic diseases. Listeners will also gain insight into the latest NAP studies, real-world patient experiences, and the future of ECS-based healthcare solutions.
Key Takeaways:
- The ECS is still ignored in mainstream healthcare despite growing scientific evidence supporting its role in regulating essential body functions.
- Doctors often lack education on the ECS because it is not widely integrated into medical school curriculums. However, ongoing research is bridging this knowledge gap.
- Age-related changes in the ECS impact health and may contribute to chronic conditions, but cannabinoid-based interventions could help restore balance.
- The NAP study is paving the way for future ECS research, helping to unlock new insights into personalized cannabinoid therapies.
Sign up for the NAP Study here.
Learn more about NAP here.
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About Miyabe Sheilds
Dr. Miyabe Shields, a Ph.D. scientist, began their academic journey in pharmaceutical sciences, receiving accolades from the International Cannabinoid Research Society for their pre-doctoral research in the endocannabinoid system. After co-founding a cannabis research startup post-PhD, they delved into rare extract and formulation research, exploring heat-transformed cannabinoids. Miyabe transitioned to community education through social media and podcasts, reaching over 6 million people. Shifting away from industry roles, they now advocate for the holistic benefits of cannabis and psychedelics. Additionally, they co-founded the Network of Applied Pharmacognosy (NAP) to disseminate real-world applications of the synergies of nature by analyzing data and communicating research and educational information to the public.
About Riley D. Kirk
Dr. Kirk is a highly accomplished Cannabis/Natural Product Chemist, educator, and valued member of the NH Cannabis Advisory Board. With a Ph.D. in pharmaceutical sciences, Riley possesses a profound understanding of natural product chemistry and its applications. She firmly believes education is an essential tool to empower individuals with knowledge about Cannabis, its benefits, risks, and safe usage practices. Through her research, expertise, and dedication to education, Riley D. Kirk, Ph.D., strives to make a significant impact in the field of Cannabis chemistry and contribute to the well-being of society.
About Debi Wimberley:
Debi Wimberley is a resilient advocate for Medical Cannabis education and self-empowered health. A survivor of decades of chronic pain and lung disease, she turned her background in medical technology, oncology, and hospital systems into tools for thriving. Certified in Medical Cannabis applications and Patient Care, Debi is a professional communicator, podcaster, TEDx speaker, and author. Founder of Effective Cannabis and Effective Cannabis Newsletter. Her mission is to centralize quality, accurate, fact-based education through collaborative work with other certified Cannabis educators, health coaches, and professionals.
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Effective Cannabis Newsletter is a platform to educate on the vital role of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) in one's health. The information is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in or available through this newsletter is for general information purposes only. It is not medical advice; it is health awareness.
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