An Introduction to the Benefits of Medical Marijuana

Medical marijuana is gaining popularity and attention across America and around the world today. This unique plant uses special chemicals that interact with the ECS or Endocannabinoid system in the body to treat various conditions and diseases. Most people don’t realize it, but the marijuana plant contains over 100 different cannabinoids, and each one performs differently in the body. By studying the way that the human body reacts to different chemicals within this plant, many are now open to the potential benefits for a range of conditions. Today, this natural substance is being prescribed as a treatment option for everything from Cancer symptoms, Alzheimer’s disease, Crohn’s disease, and eating disorders. 

How Does Medical Marijuana Help?

As this treatment option becomes more accessible in states all around the US, patients are discovering various fantastic advantages instead of other man-made drugs. The greatest amount of therapeutic impact of the plant relates to its ability to reduce nausea, chronic pain, vomiting and more during chemotherapy. However, many believe that the active ingredients in medical cannabis, cannabinoids, are essential to treating a variety of conditions, because they’re very similar to the chemicals (endocannabinoids) that the human body creates naturally to address things like appetite, memory, pain and even mood. The benefits of these plants could extend a lot further than some originally thought, addressing things like:

• Tumor growth
• Anxiety and stress
• Inflammation and chronic pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Muscle relaxation and spasms
• Appetite and weight gain

Of course, like any other kind of treatment, it’s worth noting that some people will respond better to this kind of medication than others will. Most doctors will want to keep a close eye on their patients and monitor their response over time. 

How Do You Get This Kind of Treatment?

As FDA research and clinical studies continue to unveil new opportunities available with the treatment of medical marijuana, governments are beginning to pass new legislation all the time. There are now 33 states where patients can receive a card that allows them to apply for this restricted form of treatment, as well as the district of Columbia. As with most kind of medications, getting treatment starts with a thorough assessment by a doctor. Your medical professional might conduct tests to figure out what kind of treatment is best suited for you. Once your doctor approves your treatment, getting your medical marijuana card in states like Missouri and New York can be as easy as going online and answering a handful of questions. 

Depending on your situation, you might find that you can take your medical cannabis in a selection of different ways, from using oral ingestion, to tinctures, topical substances, and even vaporizer pens. Not everyone will be comfortable smoking. The important thing to remember is that there are different guidelines in different states depending on what you’re given your treatment for. Your doctor will prescribe directions to you. Staying safe with any kind of medication means making sure that you follow the instructions given to you carefully.