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 and CBD
The psychoactive compound found in marijuana is known as THC or tetrahydrocannabinol . It is the source of the so-called “high” that cannabis user may get. Two laboratory-made drugs named dronabinol and nabilone are artificial forms of THC.They are approved by the FDA as drugs that prevent nausea and vomiting in cancer patients getting 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 person will not experience an altered state of consciousness as a result of using medical marijuana.In fact, CBD is largely responsible for the medical benefits provided by the cannabis plant.
Medical marijuana products are made in varying concentrations of THC and CBD.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 medical applications that can be studied and approved, or off-label uses.Pain, anxiety, muscle spasticity and Crohn’s disease are some of the most common reasons people use medical marijuana.More and more studies have been being conducted on CBD through the decades.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 at least 60 peer-reviewed research studies determining the benefits offered by medical marijuana, majority of which focused on the CBD compound.Medical marijuana benefits are attributed to its ability to bind to the body’s endocannabinoid system. This has varied effects, ranging from emotional and cognitive regulation to improved vascular function and more.
Addiction Potential
According to most research, medical marijuana comes with an extremely low risk of addiction and toxicity as long as it is taken at recommended therapeutic doses. 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 considered the best result of all studies demonstrating the plant’s medical uses. In states where medical marijuana is legal, it can be bought with a medical prescription and a license or card.