In many areas of the United States, marijuana has been legalized for medical applications. Still, many people are unfamiliar with the usage and benefits of medical marijuana. Here is a bit of information about the medicinal substance and its uses.
Where Does Medical Marijuana Come From?
Marijuana that is used as medicine comes from the same plants that produce marijuana that is used for recreational purposes. Thus, it is produced by marijuana farms.
Why Is Marijuana Effective as Medicine?
Although many people view marijuana as a pleasure drug, the chemicals in the plant can be applied to treat various conditions. These chemicals, which are called cannabinoids, produce the desired effects.
There are a large number of cannabinoids in marijuana. Two of the main examples that are used in medicine include delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, which is abbreviated as THC, and cannabidiol, which is abbreviated as CBD. The euphoric feeling that is produced by marijuana results from THC.
What Are Some of the Conditions That Can Be Treated With Medical Marijuana?
Marijuana can be used to treat a wide number of conditions, such as:
- Cancer. The medication can help relieve the pain associated with the disease. Marijuana also helps quell the uncomfortable side effects associated with chemotherapy. The drug may even kill or slow the growth of cancer cells.
- Loss of appetite. Many people experience an increase in appetite after ingesting marijuana. Thus, people who suffer from eating disorders, such as anorexia, may experience appetite stimulation from its use.
- Epilepsy. Epilepsy patients may see a reduction in the frequency and severity of seizures when using medical marijuana.
- Multiple sclerosis. Marijuana may help relieve the persistent muscle contractions that sometimes accompany the disease.
- Nausea. Marijuana helps to relieve symptoms of nausea.
- Glaucoma. Marijuana can be used to lower the pressure in the eye.
- Alzheimer's disease. Marijuana may be able to slow the development of plaques in the brain that are associated with Alzheimer's.
- Anxiety. Marijuana helps to relieve symptoms of anxiety.
How Is Medical Marijuana Ingested?
Marijuana can be ingested by smoking it, eating it, applying it topically, or ingesting it sublingually. The drug may even be vaporized and inhaled.
Does Medical Marijuana Use Have Side Effects?
People who ingest marijuana may experience some changes in coordination and impaired judgment while the drug is still in our system.
To learn more about marijuana and its medicinal uses, schedule a consultation with a physician in your local area or talk with staff at a medical marijuana dispensary.
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