Therapeutic Effects of Medical Cannabis and Cannabinoids

Cannabis or medical cannabis has been used for medical purposes for thousands of years, but it wasn’t until 1985 that the FDA approved its use for treating chemotherapy-related nausea and multiple sclerosis muscle spasticity. Since then, over 30 U.S. states have legalized medical marijuana

A recent poll shows that 82% of registered voters support allowing doctors to recommend medical cannabis without legal concerns, and 89% favor policies allowing physicians to prescribe small amounts of marijuana if it improves health while reducing side effects compared to conventional treatments.

Key Highlights

  • Cannabis has been used as medicine for thousands of years. In 1985, the FDA approved it for treating nausea from chemotherapy and muscle issues in MS. Many U.S. states now allow medical cannabis.
  • Cannabis compounds like THC and CBD can help with pain, epilepsy, and conditions like Alzheimer’s by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system.
  • While the FDA approves some cannabis-based drugs, whole-plant cannabis isn’t fully approved. Patients can consult doctors or dispensaries for treatment options.

What is medical cannabis?

While cannabis has been used as a medicine for thousands of years, it is a very complex plant that contains hundreds of different chemicals. The most well-known compound in cannabis is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which provides the psychotropic or “high” effect associated with marijuana use. However, there are many other compounds found in the plant that do not produce mind-altering effects but still have therapeutic properties. Some researchers believe that these non-psychotropic cannabinoids may be useful for treating neurological disorders like epilepsy and Alzheimer’s disease.

History of medical cannabis

Cannabis has been used for medical purposes for millennia. It was used in ancient China, India, and Egypt. The herb was also an important component of traditional Native American medicine. In fact, it was listed as a treatment option in the U.S. Pharmacopeia from 1850-1942! Cannabis was part of western medicine until the early 1900s when laws against its use were enacted due to its psychoactive effects (the feeling you get after using marijuana). Thankfully, cannabis is now accepted as a legitimate medical treatment by many doctors and researchers around the world.

A pair of hands holding a large, purple-hued cannabis bud, with a blurred background of other cannabis plants.

Therapeutic Benefits of Medical Cannabis & Cannabinoids

The therapeutic effects of cannabis and cannabinoids are broad and varied. The two main cannabinoids, delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) have similar but not identical effects on the human body.

Cannabinoids are chemicals found in the cannabis plant. They interact with receptors in the brain and body. Here are medical benefits:

  • The endocannabinoid system (ECS) helps many physiological processes, including appetite, pain, and memory.
  • Modulating cannabinoid levels may help treat many conditions such as cancer-related nausea and vomiting, epilepsy, anxiety, depression,improve sleep, seizure disorders, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease.
  • In multiple sclerosis, cannabinoids reduce pain, spasticity, and fatigue. They are also researched for their role in cancer chemotherapy, helping with nausea, appetite, and pain.
  • Additionally, cannabinoids have pain-relieving properties, reducing inflammation in conditions like arthritis, neuropathy, muscle spasms, and migraines.

These can be consumed in various forms, such as smoked, vaped, ingested as edibles, or used as oils and tinctures.

The FDA Reviews of Medical Cannabis

  • The FDA has approved drugs that come in the form of CBD oil, but not whole-plant marijuana.
  • The FDA has approved drugs that include delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), but not CBD or THC+CBD.
  • The FDA has not approved any drug that uses whole-plant marijuana and/or THC+CBD as an active ingredient.

How to Get Medical Cannabis in Your Area

Talk to Your Doctor

If you have a medical condition that qualifies for cannabis use, your doctor can certify it and recommend the best treatment options for you.

Consult with Your Pharmacist

Pharmacists are trained in drug interactions and can advise you on which cannabis products work well together for your specific needs.

Contact Your Local Health Authority

Your local government can provide information about medical cannabis availability in your area and may refer you to dispensaries or delivery services.

Reach Out to Local Dispensaries

Many dispensaries offer online sales and in-person shopping just like Budora for weed delivery in Vancouver and surroundings in BC. Budora carries various cannabis including indica, sativa, and hydrid strains designed for different therapeutic effects.

By following these steps, you can easily access medical cannabis tailored to your needs.

Conclusion

Medical cannabis, or marijuana, has been used for centuries as a natural medicine and is now recognized for its ability to help with symptoms like pain and nausea. While it can be a great option for some conditions, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution and doesn’t work for everyone. As support for medical cannabis grows and laws evolve, research continues to uncover more about its benefits and limits. If you’re curious or ready to order medical cannabis online, visit Budora today or contact us for more information. We’re here to help!

FAQ's

What is the difference between CBD and THC?

CBD and THC are both natural compounds found in cannabis, but they have different effects. THC is the one that gives you that "high" feeling, often associated with marijuana use. On the other hand, CBD doesn’t get you high and is mainly used for its calming and therapeutic benefits, like reducing anxiety or easing pain, without affecting your mental state.

What Are the Different Types of Cannabinoids and How Do They Work?

THC and CBD are the most well-known cannabinoids. Other cannabinoids like CBG, CBC, and CBN also play important roles. CBG has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, CBC helps with anxiety and depression, and CBN is known for its sedative properties, which can help with sleep

How to use medical cannabis safely?

When using medical cannabis, it’s important to start small and go slow to see how it affects you. Consult with your doctor or healthcare provider to find the right product and method that suits you, whether it's oils, capsules, or vaporizing. Also, always store your cannabis in a safe place, out of reach of children or pets, to prevent accidents.

What’s the best strain of medical cannabis for pain?

For pain relief, many people find that strains with a balance of CBD and THC work best. Strains high in CBD help with pain without the high. If you’re looking for something with more of a psychoactive effect, Gas Mask and Baklava are popular choices, known for their pain-relieving properties. Always talk to a professional to find what works best for you.

What are the benefits of medical cannabis?

Medical cannabis can be a game-changer for people dealing with chronic pain, nausea, anxiety, or insomnia. It’s also used to help manage symptoms from conditions like epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and chemotherapy treatments. It’s not a cure-all, but for many, it provides relief when other treatments fall short.

What is Medical Marijuana?

Medical marijuana is marijuana used for medicinal purposes. It comes from the cannabis plant and contains cannabinoids, which help treat chronic pain, nausea, and symptoms of various medical conditions, including the side effects of chemotherapy.

What Are the Different Types of Medical Marijuana?

Medical marijuana comes in various forms, such as smoking, edibles, pills, or tinctures. The main types are:

  • Indica: Known for its calming effects, often used for pain, insomnia, and anxiety.
  • Sativa: Known for its energizing effects, often used for depression and fatigue.
  • Hybrid: A mix of both, used for a range of medical conditions.

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