Medical marijuana has become increasingly common over the past decade. It’s been legalized in nearly 30 states, including Florida, and it seems like it can be found in shops on every corner.
But what are the real benefits, and how can you make sure you’re getting the best quality and using it appropriately?
The Benefits and Uses of Medical Marijuana
Many patients turn to medical marijuana for relief from chronic pain, as this is one of the most effective uses for it. Millions of Americans suffer from chronic pain over months or years, and other solutions are imperfect.
Opioids have a very high risk of addiction, while lower-level solutions like NSAIDs can cause stomach issues or worsen kidney issues. Medical marijuana, when used appropriately, can avoid these issues while providing lasting relief.
Some chronic conditions are particularly responsive to medical marijuana treatment, like:
- Fibromyalgia
- Parkinson’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis
And it shows evidence of being a very effective treatment for PTSD, though more studies are needed to know for sure. This isn’t a complete list of possible conditions and diseases that can be helped by medical marijuana.
If you have a specific ailment that affects you, always check with a medical professional first just to be sure.
CBD vs. THC: What to Know
Marijuana has two main active components: CBD (cannabinol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). THC is what gives users the typical marijuana high – it’s a psychoactive chemical.
CBD can provide pain and anxiety relief without the “high” of THC. So, if you’re looking for proven relief without intoxication, CBD-dominant strains or edibles are a good solution.
Both components work well for pain relief, though, so it’s a question of finding what works for you personally (preferably under the advice of a medical professional, like us at Emerald Health).
Using Medical Marijuana
After a medical professional evaluates you and you decide medical marijuana is right for you, you can consider the variety of ways to take it.
Often when you picture marijuana, you’ll imagine smoking, which is the most common non-medical way of consuming it. But if you’re a medical marijuana patient, you have many options.
Smoking Medical Marijuana
Smoking is one option, with many different strains to consider with different properties, and vaporizing is another option. You can also opt for oils, either to consume in food or under the tongue.
Edibles
Edibles like gummies and chocolates can be a delicious way to get the relief you need without being hard on your lungs.
Tinctures
And there are tinctures – in salves, lotions, and ointments – to be used on your body that might provide relief to specific areas.
No One Size Fits All
Options abound for treatments with medical marijuana – it’s certainly not one size fits all. That’s why doing your research (like reading this blog post!) and talking to your doctor are vital steps.
As medical marijuana becomes more widespread in the US, there are more options but also more potential for confusion and abuse. Caution and a trusted guide are key to getting the most out of your prescription, just as they would be for any treatment.
We Can Help
To get the best experience in Sarasota, don’t just stop at the shop on the corner. Your best bet for finding relief from your ailments in a holistic way is to visit a reputable medical practice (like Emerald Medical Cannabis Clinic) to get a full evaluation from licensed medical professionals.
After taking the time to get to know you and your unique medical needs, we’ll be in the best position to prescribe you the solution that works for you.