Using Cannabis as Medicine

For centuries people have been using cannabis as medicine. Recent studies have shown that it has an even greater potential in treating more medical conditions than we initially thought possible. So whether you are a student looking for information on cannabis research or someone curious about how cannabis can be used to treat their condition, read on–this guide is for you. We will cover everything you need to know about using cannabis as medicine, including the legality of cannabis, how to purchase cannabis for medicinal purposes, and the benefits and differences in each strain.

The Beginning of the Medical Cannabis Journey

Proposition 215, also known as the Compassionate Use Act of 1996, is a California law that permits individuals to use medical marijuana. It was created through the initiative process and passed with 55.6% favorably and 44.4% against. The California voters passed the initiative and presented a statewide referendum. It allows patients with a valid doctor’s recommendation or a designated Primary Caregiver to purchase, possess, and grow marijuana for personal medical use. The state government passed the first medical marijuana ballot with Proposition 215. It started a snowball effect that has led to similar measures being approved in over 36 other states.

How to Purchase Medical Marijuana

Once you have established that your condition or illness qualifies you to join your state’s medical marijuana program, the next step is to locate a doctor or clinic that can give you a recommendation. Each state has its own unique medical marijuana card or certification, so be sure to research your state’s requirements. Many states, including California, require that you have your medical marijuana recommendation renewed on a yearly or bi-annual basis. Additionally, most dispensaries need you to bring in your valid recommendation every time you visit.

What is the Difference Between Cannabis Strains?

While some claim that indica-dominant strains offer a more body-weighted effect and Sativa-dominant strains provide more of an invigorating cerebral experience, this is not always the case. It’s actually the combination of cannabinoids and terpenes that are responsible for how a strain makes you feel.

How did indica-dominant strains acquire the stigma of causing users to feel “couch-locked”? The most probable reason is that, in general, indica-dominant types have greater amounts of terpenes like myrcene or linalool. Whereas Sativa-dominant strains get the reputation for being invigorating thanks to high amounts of terpenes like alpha-pinene, limonene, and beta-caryophyllene.

Indica-Dominant Effects

The strong body high we all know and love is produced by the indica strain. For some, indicas tend to provide “couch lock,” a degree of drowsiness. Indicas are also well-known for causing hunger and reducing bodily discomfort and pains. Many people like to smoke indica-dominant strains before going to sleep to help them fall asleep quicker.

Sativa-Dominant Effects

Sativas, on the other hand, are popular for producing a “head high.” They are designed to assist people in getting rid of sadness, boosting focus and creativity while relieving anxiety. Sativas are most well-known for delivering an overall sense of well-being and happiness.

What is a hybrid strain of cannabis?

Hybrids are marijuana strains that combine indica and sativa genetics, producing a combination of effects. Consumers generally consider hybrids pleasurable and may either energize or calm you down, depending on the strain’s family history. Connoisseurs choose hybrids for their various therapeutic effects, ranging from lowering anxiety and stress to treating chemotherapy or radiation-induced problems.

What is CBD?

CBD is a non-intoxicating, highly therapeutic component found in cannabis. Cannabidiol (CBD) has been instrumental in the medical marijuana industry’s growth.

By now, you’ve probably heard of the two most popular cannabinoids: THC and CBD. The key difference is that, unlike THC, CBD will not make you feel high. In fact, CBD can minimize the psychoactive impact of THC due to its binding to cannabinoid receptors. As a consequence, CBD lessens the effect. This does not imply that CBD is useless by itself; it may be used on its own to produce benefits. Many individuals experience a deep sense of relaxation after taking high doses of CBD. For example, after leaving a hot CBD bath, your body may feel tingly and relaxed, while your mind will feel clear.

The Medical Benefits of CBD

Every day the number of diseases found that CBD can treat increases. Here are a few illnesses CBD commonly treats already:

• Epilepsy and seizure disorders
• Pain and inflammation
• PTSD and anxiety
• Opioid withdrawal

The name “CBD” became well-known for treating a rare and severe form of juvenile epilepsy. Scientific and anecdotal evidence suggested that it would help manage various epilepsy ailments. CBD has no lethal dose or known severe negative effects, making it safe for children. Although the usage of cannabis-derived chemicals to treat diseases is still a touchy issue in a society where cannabis has been vilified, science has shown it to be incredibly helpful!

With so much to learn about cannabis, it can be hard to know where to start. We hope this guide helped give some insight into using cannabis as medicine. Be sure to check out our other articles to learn more or click here to enroll in our free demo: Effectively Communicating as a Dispensary Tech