Here at Green Flower, we are constantly inspired by the different people we meet.
Some are searching for personal answers like how to use cannabis as medicine, and others want to join this incredible industry and start a new career.
What’s more, many of these people live in regions where cannabis still faces a lot of stigma, and yet they strive to do their part and dismantle that stigma every day.
To spread this inspiration, you’re reading the first of a new, monthly column where we highlight some of the people who’ve gone through our Green Flower Academy, capturing a bit of their story and what it is that has pulled them toward cannabis learning in the first place.
These two inspiring people were among the group to recently finish the Cannabis Fundamentals Certificate Program.
Dr. Carol Layton – Biological Dentist
Can you tell us about the connection between your work and cannabis?
I am a biological dentist (DMD from University of Pittsburgh…now practice in Hummelstown, PA…near Hershey)…I have been in practice now for at least 41 years, 12 of those years have been mercury free, mercury safe (safe removal of mercury fillings), fluoride free. I am also certified to use ozone in my practice (we have a generator and produce ozonated water, gases and oils for protection, prevention and therapy).
I have degrees in both Traditional Naturopathy and Medical Naturopathy…some of my training here has been online…so I am comfortable with this educational method.
As a healthcare provider, I have prescribed many different types of pain medications over the years, including opioids. At this point I use many homeopathic remedies, herbs with very few pharmaceuticals. My patients request this. My interest in cannabis is two-fold… first for my patients and second for family and friends who are suffering from chronic pain. I have seen so many issues with side effects from pharmaceuticals and was aware of the many potential uses for cannabis.
I have spent most of my career in Pennsylvania. PA has just recently legalized medical cannabis but has limited its use for only certain chronic conditions, none that applies currently to the conditions and pain that I deal with as a dentist. I am a real advocate of legalizing, producing and regulating cannabis in my state.
I have personally used CBD oil for mild arthritis pain in my hands (occupational hazard) and it is very effective. However, getting quality products is not always easy.
Any thoughts on what attracted you to Green Flower Academy?
I saw your course and knew it was for me. Last year I took a one-day course offered to healthcare providers that discussed safety and uses for both opioids and cannabis. I was very disappointed in this presentation and was looking for more training. Green Flower fit.
I was very pleased with the short written pieces and videos. This was just right for my busy lifestyle and my own ADD issues (lack of attention span…lol).
I plan to continue my learning into the medical use of cannabis and am looking forward to another course directed toward healthcare providers.
Sandra Tigner – Licensed Pharmacist and Chemical Engineer
Tell us about your work and your interest in cannabis.
I am a licensed pharmacist and chemical engineer working in the pharmaceutical industry. I have been watching medical marijuana and the many different ways it is being used and the success that people are having. I think that cannabis has a bright future for medicinal applications and I want to help ensure that new products are developed which are both safe and effective. I would love to consult with the industry on the development of new products and manufacturing high-quality products.
Why Green Flower?
Green Flower has an excellent reputation and is well connected throughout the industry. They are able to connect industry thought leaders together for a united approach to the industry.
Was the Certificate Program helpful?
I enjoyed the program and felt like it was well worth my time!! The program had a diverse list of topics and combined both video and paper learning. Additionally, Green Flower was able to provide excellent reference materials. Finally, a knowledge test was given to ensure that the certification process carried some weight.
