Medical marijuana is the medical form of the Cannabis sativa or Cannabis indica plant, which has been proven to treat or manage various diseases and conditions.For centuries, the Cannabis plant was used medically around the world until the beginning of the 1900s.
THC vs CBD
Tetrahydrocannabinol or THC is the compound responsible for the psychoactive effects of marijuana.It is what makes people feel “high.” Nabilone and dronabinol are two synthetic or laboratory-manufactured forms of THC.They are approved by the DFA for the prevention of nausea and vomiting in patients receiving chemotherapy.
On the other hand, there is another compound found in marijuana called cannabidiol or CBD, and it has no psychoactive effects.Non-psychoactive means the user will not experience an altered state of consciousness as an effect of medical marijuana.In fact, CBD is mainly responsible for the the medical benefits of the cannabis plant.
The THC and CBD concentrations of medical marijuana products today are varied.According to experts, 10mg of THC is to be considered “one serving” and anyone new to medical marijuana should not consume more until they are sure of their individual response.
Medical Advantages
Marijuana has both studied and approved,and off-label medical uses.Based on a recent survey, pain, muscle spasticity and inflammatory bowel diseases are some of the most common conditions of people who consume medical marijuana.Throughout the decades, CBD has been the subject of an increasing number of studies.This compound provides neuroprotection to people who have Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Huntington’s diseases, as well as fights fetal hypoxia and other movement and neurodegenerative issues.
Health Benefits of Cannabis Plant
There are more than 60 peer-reviewed research studies looking into the benefits provided by medical marijuana, and most were centered around CBD.Medical marijuana benefits are attributed to its ability to bind to the body’s endocannabinoid system. This has multiple effects, from improving learning and motivation to improved digestion.
Addiction Potential
Based on research, medical marijuana is accompanied by a very low risk of addiction and toxicity provided recommended therapeutic doses are not exceeded. When it comes to heavy users possibly developing psychological dependence and whether or not this amounts to marijuana abuse, studies demonstrate the opposite – CBD oil might even be effective in ending marijuana addiction.
Legalities
In an increasing number of states, medical marijuana is now legal under certain restrictions. This is probably the best thing that happened to the industry, which has benefited countless patients and users. When legal in a state, medical marijuana can be purchased with prescription, authorization, or medical recommendation, as well as with the user’s card or license.