From Plant to Prescription: Understanding Medical Cannabis for First-Timers
The use of medical cannabis has become a popular alternative treatment for various medical conditions.
With its therapeutic properties, more and more patients are turning to this natural remedy to alleviate symptoms and manage chronic illnesses.
However, for beginners, navigating the world of cannabis for medical use can be intimidating.
From understanding the different strains to dosing and administering, there is much to learn. This is where a beginner’s guide comes in handy.
This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive beginner’s guide to using medical cannabis. We understand that deciding to use cannabis as a medical treatment can be daunting, especially if you don’t know where to start.
Our guide will cover all the basics, such as what medical cannabis is, how it works, and the different types of strains available.
A Brief History Of Cannabis For Medical Use
Contrary to common belief, cannabis for medical use has a lengthy history. Medical cannabis has been used for thousands of years.
Ancient Chinese texts dating back to 2700 BC mention the use of cannabis as a treatment for a variety of ailments, including pain and inflammation.
In India, cannabis has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to treat ailments such as epilepsy and anxiety. The plant made its way to the Western world in the 19th century when it was introduced as a treatment for pain and muscle spasms.
Cannabis for medical use was widely used until the early 20th century when it was prohibited in many countries due to its psychoactive effects.
How Does Medical Cannabis Work
The active components present in cannabis, engage with the intricate endocannabinoid system to elicit a diverse range of therapeutic outcomes.
The endocannabinoid system represents a multifaceted network of receptors and molecules, playing an essential role in maintaining homeostasis in various physiological functions, such as pain, mood, appetite, and sleep.
Upon the ingestion or inhalation of medical cannabis, the cannabinoids effectively bind to specific receptors, thereby activating them and inducing various effects that can significantly ameliorate symptoms and enhance overall well-being.
For instance, the psychoactive component of cannabis, THC, has demonstrated its efficacy in mitigating pain and inflammation, whereas the non-psychoactive cannabinoid, CBD, has been recognized for its anticonvulsant, anti-anxiety, and neuroprotective attributes.
Active Compounds in Cannabis
Medical cannabis is known to contain a multitude of active compounds, referred to as cannabinoids, each of which has distinct interactions with the human body. Two of the most widely recognized cannabinoids are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
Beyond THC and CBD, medical cannabis also contains other active compounds, such as cannabigerol (CBG), cannabinol (CBN), and tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV).
CBG has the potential for anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, CBN may possess sedative effects that could be relevant for treating insomnia, and THCV has been shown to regulate blood sugar levels, indicating the potential for treating diabetes.
Benefits of Medical Cannabis
Medical cannabis offers a multitude of advantages, among which is its pivotal role in helping alleviate chronic pain in patients.
Several studies have shown the potential of cannabinoids present in cannabis in managing pain in individuals afflicted with medical conditions like multiple sclerosis, arthritis, and nerve damage.
Evidence has demonstrated that medical cannabis can be efficacious for the treatment of seizures in epilepsy patients.
A specific cannabis cultivar known as Charlotte’s Web, characterized by high levels of cannabidiol (CBD) and low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), has been observed to notably decrease the occurrence and intensity of seizures in afflicted individuals.
Additionally, medical cannabis can be used in the treatment of seizures in epilepsy patients.
A specific cannabis cultivar known as Charlotte’s Web, characterized by high levels of cannabidiol (CBD) and low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), has been observed to notably decrease the occurrence and intensity of seizures in afflicted individuals.
How to Consume Cannabis
1. Inhalation
Inhalation is one of the most popular methods for consuming medical cannabis due to its rapid onset and efficacy. This method involves inhaling cannabis through smoking, vaporization, or dabbing.
Smoking cannabis involves burning the plant material and inhaling the smoke, while vaporization heats the cannabis to a temperature that releases the active compounds without burning the plant material.
Dabbing involves inhaling concentrated cannabis extracts that have been heated on a heated surface.
2. Topical
While many people associate cannabis with smoking, it can also be used topically to provide targeted relief for pain and inflammation.
Cannabis-infused balms, lotions, and salves are gaining popularity as a natural way to address issues such as arthritis, eczema, and muscle soreness.
3. Oral
An extensively prevalent method for utilizing therapeutic cannabis is via the oral route.
This technique encompasses the consumption of cannabis-infused products, inclusive of edibles, capsules, tinctures, or oils, which are ingested orally to attain the desired therapeutic effects.
The utilization of cannabis through oral ingestion for medicinal purposes presents a range of benefits in comparison to other consumption methods.
Primarily, it provides an unobtrusive and practical approach to cannabis use without resorting to smoking or vaporizing.
This is especially advantageous for patients who are either incapacitated or disinclined to smoke, particularly those who suffer from respiratory ailments.
Getting Started With Medical Cannabis
Do’s:
- Start Slowly
For novice individuals seeking to utilize cannabis for medical reasons, it is imperative to adopt a gradual and measured approach. This advice is particularly crucial for those who are unfamiliar with cannabis or have not consumed it for an extended period.
It may be tempting to indulge in large quantities of cannabis to alleviate symptoms, but such a course of action can result in adverse side effects and jeopardize one’s well-being.
- Research the Right Products
Performing comprehensive research on the various products obtainable is a requisite endeavour. The initial course of action involves seeking counsel from a licensed healthcare professional who is proficient in the domain of medical cannabis.
The said professional can offer valuable insights regarding the appropriate dosage, optimal ingestion methodology, and possible side effects or drug interactions.
- Consume in a Familiar Environment
For cannabis first-time users, it is recommended to consume cannabis for medical use in a familiar environment where one feels comfortable and relaxed.
This can help to alleviate any potential anxiety or discomfort that may arise from using a new substance.
- Consume After Finishing Your Tasks and Obligations
While cannabis can offer therapeutic benefits for various conditions, it can also impair your cognitive functions and affect your productivity.
Therefore, it is recommended to wait until you have completed your essential tasks and responsibilities before consuming cannabis for medical use.
Don’t’s:
- Avoid Operating Machinery After Consuming
The usage of cannabis for medicinal purposes presents a notable threat in the form of impaired driving and machinery operation.
The psychoactive properties of cannabis can induce alterations in perception, judgment, and reaction time, thereby increasing the potential for accidents, injuries, and fatalities.
As such, it is of utmost importance to refrain from driving or operating heavy machinery whilst under the influence of cannabis.
Top Medical Cannabis Products
- Atomic Gas
The Atomic Gas cultivar is a coveted strain renowned for its well-balanced effects and one-of-a-kind flavour profile.
This hybrid’s genetic lineage is derived from two parent strains – the potent and aromatic Chemdawg and the equally potent and fragrant Emerald Triangle Kush.
The addition of THC Bomb as the other parent strain imbues Atomic Gas with an extra boost of THC, resulting in a hybrid that boasts an average THC content of 20-25%.
Its potent and unique attributes make Atomic Gas a powerhouse hybrid that is highly sought-after among connoisseurs and cannabis enthusiasts alike.
Consumers of Atomic Gas describe its effects as a combination of both cerebral and physical, providing a sense of relaxation and euphoria that is perfect for unwinding after a long day.
Its flavour profile is equally impressive, with notes of diesel, earth, and pine that leave a pleasant aftertaste.
Due to its rare genetics and high demand, Atomic Gas can be hard to come by but is worth trying for anyone looking for a well-balanced hybrid with a unique taste and powerful effects.
- Sesh Moon Rock Joints
Sesh Moonrock Joints represent the pinnacle of cannabis excellence, tailored to meet the highest standards of medical use.
Each joint is meticulously fashioned with a full gram of AAAA flower and superior distillate, carefully calibrated to provide a superlative experience.
Our flower is sourced from renowned growers who employ organic and sustainable farming methods, guaranteeing a quality product every time.
Our premium distillate ensures that each joint burns evenly, resulting in a seamless and consistent experience for our valued clientele.
- Caviar – Amnesia Haze
Caviar – Amnesia Haze is a highly sought-after cannabis extract due to its potent medicinal properties.
Amnesia haze is a hybrid strain that is a cross between a Jamaican sativa, a Laotian sativa, and an Afghan Hawaiian Indica-dominant hybrid.
The result is a well-balanced strain that has the best of both worlds, bringing together the uplifting and energizing effects of Sativas with the relaxing and pain-relieving properties of Indica.
This particular strain has gained widespread popularity amongst users of medical cannabis due to its remarkable capacity to alleviate chronic pain, depression, anxiety, and stress.
Its distinguished euphoric effects are recognized to invigorate mood and foster positive emotions, making it a highly sought-after remedy.
Get Started With Medical Cannabis Today
The utilization of cannabis for medicinal purposes has the potential to alter the lives of patients who suffer from a diverse range of conditions.
Nevertheless, it is imperative to exercise prudence when approaching its application and to solicit the counsel of a healthcare professional.
By obtaining the appropriate knowledge and guidance, patients can securely and efficaciously integrate medical cannabis into their treatment regimens, thus enhancing their standard of living.
It is advantageous to note that MMJExpress is a reliable online weed dispensary in Canada. Contact us for quality medical cannabis.
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