WHY MEDICAL MARIJUANA
Annette Folgueras MD » Why Medical Cannabis
DEA Chief Administrative Law Judge, Francis Young has stated “In strict medical terms marijuana is far safer than many foods we commonly consume…. Marijuana in its natural form is one of the safest therapeutically active substances known to man”.
THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids work by interacting with the cannabinoid receptors in the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). The ECS is a very complex regulatory system, found within all complex animals (not only humans). It regulates physiological processes including motor control, mood, memory, appetite, pain, digestion, immune response, neural protection, bone growth, fertility, reproduction, mood & pleasure, temperature regulation, and many others.
It is a biochemical system of sophisticated compounds, their receptors, and signaling pathways. The ECS is responsible for regulating the release of neurotransmitters resulting in biochemical communication. The discovery of the endocannabinoid system has led to the emergence of a “new physiological system of immense importance”. world-renowned cannabis expert, Raphael Mechoulem PhD.
Medical marijuana may not be right for everyone, but it is one of the safest substances available and could be something worth considering. Medical marijuana treatment is a patient-driven process, meaning you have a lot of input into your treatment. You choose how you wish to receive your treatment; the dose is determined by the symptoms you want to treat and desired relief. Your system responses determine what terpenes and cannabinoids will be most beneficial.
The medical marijuana treatment process is very individualized. Each of us has a unique endocannabinoid system in our body consisting of various receptors. Homeostasis is the system’s primary goal. If our endocannabinoid system is not functioning properly, it can lead to an imbalance and possibly cause certain medical conditions. We know that at least two types of receptors respond to cannabinoids, be it the endocannabinoids our body creates or phytocannabinoids from the plant. The phytocannabinoids and terpenes in the plant interact with these receptors in our bodies to provide potential relief of symptoms.
Medical marijuana can be consumed in different ways depending on the patient’s preferences. While some patients prefer inhaling their medicine using dry leaves or cartridges, others opt for capsules or tinctures instead. There are non-intoxicating topical lotions that alleviate localized pain and can help manage symptoms. As a result, they do not lead to mind-altering effects that other delivery methods may cause.
People who decide medical marijuana may be a viable option work closely with their recommending physician, the dispensary pharmacist, and the dispensary staff.
You should disclose any medications you are currently taking and any cannabis experiences you may have had.
