Full Moon Reflections on the Role of Cannabis and Psilocybin in Addiction and Recovery

By Jodi Chapin RN

September marks National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the achievements of individuals in recovery, raise awareness about substance use disorders, and promote effective treatments.

This month also presents an opportunity to explore innovative approaches to managing addiction and supporting long-term sobriety. Recently, attention has grown around the potential role of plant medicines such as cannabis and low-dose psilocybin in aiding recovery. While these substances are traditionally associated with drug use, emerging research suggests they might support addiction recovery by providing both symptom management and harm reduction strategies.

Drawing Inspiration From Nature

Today, Tuesday, September 17, at 10:34 pm EST, we observe the partial eclipse of the full moon, also called the Super moon or Harvest moon. The full moon and eclipses are powerful symbols of transformation and renewal, and we can draw inspiration from the cycles of nature as we consider the process of recovery. Just as the moon goes through phases, the journey of recovery involves cycles of growth, introspection, and rebirth.

The full moon is often seen as a time of illumination and culmination. It represents a moment when we can see things more clearly, much like the moments of clarity that come in the recovery process. The full moon’s light can symbolize the enlightenment that individuals experience as they gain insight into their patterns of addiction and work toward healing.

A lunar eclipse (which occurs when the Earth passes between the sun and the moon) temporarily obscures the moon’s light, mirroring the way challenges and setbacks can cloud the path to recovery. But just as the eclipse ends and the moon’s light is restored, individuals in recovery often experience periods of darkness or relapse, followed by renewal and progress. These celestial events remind us that, even in moments of struggle, the light always returns, symbolizing the hope and resilience found on the path to recovery.

Reflection Questions:

What phase of recovery are you currently in?

Think of your recovery journey as a cycle, much like the moon's phases. Are you in a phase of growth, reflection, or renewal? How does recognizing these phases help you stay grounded during challenging times?

How do moments of darkness or setbacks impact your recovery process?

Just as the lunar eclipse temporarily hides the moon's light, setbacks can cloud our progress. What steps can you take to emerge from these darker moments and embrace renewal?

What role do natural rhythms or rituals play in your personal healing process?

The full moon symbolizes clarity and insight. Do you have any personal practices, such as journaling, meditation, or moon rituals, that help you gain perspective and support your recovery?

Have you explored alternative therapies like CBD, THC, or low-dose psilocybin?

If so, how have these treatments impacted your recovery or overall well-being? If not, what questions do you have about their potential role in your journey toward healing?

How do you balance both light and shadow in your life?

Recovery often involves embracing both the highs and lows. In what ways can you accept and learn from difficult moments, while still celebrating your achievements and progress?

My Mother’s Story: A Personal Reflection on Cannabis in Recovery

One personal experience close to my heart is my 85-year-old mother’s journey. Having spent years in Florida, far from her children and grandchildren, she was relocated to Cape Cod in 2021 during the height of the COVID pandemic. For years, her chronic pain and severe anxiety and depression kept her mentally and physically crippled and dependent on opiates and benzodiazepines, which left her in a fog, dulling her spirit and making it difficult for her to truly engage with life. Her dependence on these medications only added to the challenges she faced as she aged.

A significant part of her transformation involved successfully transitioning off opiates and benzodiazepines. With the help of carefully tested cannabis products, my mother has not only managed her pain but also regained her clarity of mind. The use of cannabis has been a game-changer for her, offering effective relief from her chronic pain without the heavy side effects of traditional medications. Her mood and energy have improved, and she’s now able to connect more deeply with her family. This personal experience highlights the potential of cannabis in helping individuals navigate recovery, particularly for those who struggle with long-term dependence on prescription medications.

Understanding Addiction Recovery

Addiction recovery is a multifaceted process that encompasses physical, emotional, and psychological healing. Key components include:

Detoxification: The initial phase of eliminating substances from the body, often under medical supervision. Detoxification can be a very uncomfortable process involving cravings, nausea and vomiting, anxiety, insomnia, flu-like symptoms, and more.
Therapeutic Support: Engaging in counseling, therapy, and support groups to address the root causes of addiction.
Lifestyle Changes: Incorporating healthy habits like exercise, nutrition, and stress management to support long-term recovery. Breathwork, meditation, and yoga are powerful tools that nourish inner strength as well as balancing the endocannabinoid system!
Relapse Prevention: Developing strategies to prevent relapse, building a supportive network, and addressing triggers.

The Potential Role of Cannabis in Recovery

Cannabis compounds like CBD and THC are gaining attention for their therapeutic potential benefits in addiction recovery, particularly through managing withdrawal symptoms, reducing cravings, and supporting overall well-being. Harm reduction approaches incorporating THC have also shown promise.

Low-Dose Psilocybin and Recovery

Recent clinical trials on very low-dose psilocybin, also known as “micro-dosing,” have shown potential benefits in addiction recovery. Psilocybin affects neural pathways related to mood and cognition, leading to increased emotional openness, reduced fear responses, and a greater sense of connection—all of which may support sobriety. Research suggests that psilocybin-assisted therapy can be especially effective in addressing underlying trauma and emotional triggers for addiction.

A Few Considerations:

As promising as these plant-based medicines are, it is important to remember that the research on CBD, THC, and psilocybin for addiction recovery is still in its early stages. More clinical trials are needed to determine optimal dosages and safety profiles.
Individuals in recovery who are considering using cannabis or psilocybin in recovery should consult their healthcare providers. Both substances can interact with other medications and may not be suitable for everyone.
- Green Network Providers offers Plant Medicine Consultations to provide education and guidance on navigating various types of plant and functional mushroom medicines.
Ensure that any products used are from reputable sources and comply with local regulations.
- We are fortunate to have a safe and successful cannabis program in Massachusetts!
- At this point, several towns in Massachusetts (Northampton, Easthampton, Somerville, and Cambridge) have decriminalized the possession of psilocybin
- The upcoming 2024 election brings Question 4, “Legalizing Psychedelic Drugs” which “would allow persons over age 21 to use certain natural psychedelic substances under licensed supervision and to grow and possess limited quantities of those substances in their home, and would create a commission to regulate those substances.”
The quality and purity of these products can vary. If possible, choose lab-tested products and provide Certificates of Analysis (COAs).

Celebrating National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month

National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month is a time to focus on the achievements of those in recovery and to explore new approaches to sobriety. Cannabis and low-dose psilocybin offer emerging hope for those looking to reduce cravings, manage withdrawal, and support overall well-being. As research continues, these alternative treatments may become a valuable part of addiction recovery strategies.

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