In recent times, medical cannabis has been in the spotlight as a viable treatment option alongside typical medicines. This drug has shown promising results in relieving the symptoms of various illnesses in states where marijuana is legal. As a result, Florida and some other states allow the use of cannabis for a list of qualifying medical conditions. The soothing effects of cannabis on health can ease the lives of those with debilitating illnesses. The potential healing effects of cannabis can be attributed to its CBD and THC compounds, which affect the body’s functions. However, cannabis use is regulated in the Sunshine State, and not every patient can access it. As a result, patients must adhere to the policies set by the state. Also, using a medical marijuana card is crucial for safe access to this drug alternative.
In this article, we will explain how medical cannabis affects the human body. We will also focus on legally accessing this drug for health purposes.
What is medical cannabis?
Derived from the Cannabis Sativa plant, medical marijuana is a healing drug that has a long history of usage dating back thousands of years. In the past, cannabis was used for pain relief and against inflammation. However, research is ongoing on this herb’s efficacy in the contemporary health sector.
Today, medical marijuana is being explored as a natural way of coping with health issues. It constitutes hundreds of chemical compounds or cannabinoids. However, CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) are the prominent ones. They have varying properties with potential therapeutic benefits.
It must be noted that, despite the medicinal characteristics of medical marijuana, its use can lead to unwanted side effects. Therefore, a medical marijuana doctor is important for safe use.
A medical marijuana doctor can offer insights about the safe use of cannabis and how this drug can affect your body. Also, only those with qualifying medical conditions can use cannabis. Thus, having a clear understanding of the eligible medical conditions is crucial.
Read further to learn about the qualifying conditions for cannabis use in Florida.
Am I eligible for medical marijuana use?
In Florida, your health condition must align with the qualifying medical conditions set by the State for cannabis use. The Florida Department of Health oversees the use of medical marijuana and allows access to cannabis for those having:
- Anorexia and eating disorders
- Anxiety
- Back Pain
- Cachexia
- Cancer
- Severe and chronic pain
- Severe nausea
- Sickle cell anemia
- Spasticity
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Migraine Headaches
- Insomnia and sleep disorders
- Hepatitis C
- Crohn’s disease
- Muscle spasms
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- HIV/AIDS
- Muscular dystrophy
- Lyme disease
- Epilepsy
- Glaucoma
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Diabetes
This list includes other conditions with similar symptoms to those mentioned above if the consulting doctor determines Cannabis can help the patient. However, self-medication is highly discouraged as it can cause unwanted and harmful outcomes.
How does medical Cannabis affect the body?
Medical marijuana’s CBD and THC compounds are known for their distinct effects. While THC is well-known as an intoxicating constituent, CBD is non-psychoactive and offers pain-relieving effects.
Alongside these compounds, terpenes and flavonoids are also present in the cannabis plant, which offer health benefits. These lesser-known chemicals also play a role in managing pain, reducing inflammation, and offering anxiety relief. Their synergistic effect is defined as the “entourage effect,” where the combined effect is greater than the effect of each compound alone. However, more research is required to learn about their impact on the body.
Understanding the ECS system
The endocannabinoid system is an intricate web of receptors that spreads throughout the body, including the brain, CNS, organs, and connective tissues. It facilitates various physiological functions, such as hunger, mood, and pain sensation. Cannabinoids like THC and CBD can modulate these physiological processes by influencing these receptors.
Benefits of Medical Cannabis
Research indicates that medical marijuana can benefit the body in several ways. Moreover, the way it is ingested has an impact on its effects. Among the top benefits of medical cannabis are:
1.Pain Relief
According to studies, medical marijuana can help with chronic pain by influencing the ECS system. This system produces cannabinoids that mimic the effects of those present in cannabis. By stimulating CB1 and CB2 receptors, medical marijuana can regulate pain throughout its processing in the body.
CB1 receptors are located in the CNS and peripheral nervous systems. They are responsible for managing physical and emotional pain. Meanwhile, CB2 receptors in the immune cells play a role in pain reduction by regulating inflammation.
As a result, MMJ works alongside the body’s natural mechanism to cope with pain. However, discussing your condition with a doctor is crucial for using medical cannabis for pain management.
2.Reduced Anxiety
According to research, millions of individuals experience anxiety disorders globally that disrupt their daily lives. However, certain medical marijuana strains can help ease feelings of stress and anxiety. They can affect the ECS involved in mood regulation to promote a sense of calm. Among some of the marijuana strains for anxiety are:
- Girl Scout Cookies
- Jack Herer
- Sour Diesel
- Blue Dream
- OG Kush
However, you must note that using any of these strains requires medical supervision and guidance. Thus, contacting a medical marijuana doctor is crucial.
3.Chemotherapy-induced Nausea
Medical marijuana can reduce the nausea and vomiting that cancer patients may experience due to chemotherapy. THC reacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which has an impact on nausea signals. Moreover, THC directly inhibits the vomiting reflex via anti-emetic effects. As a result, this mechanism can offer ease for those coping with chemotherapy.
4.Safety Considerations
Despite the healing nature of medical marijuana, the recommendation of a medical marijuana doctor is necessary to use it. You must get your health evaluated to know if you are a medical marijuana-eligible patient. Also, there is a wide range of medical marijuana products available on the market. Thus, you can choose the right product with the support of a knowledgeable MMJ expert.
Conclusion
Medical marijuana is a natural drug alternative that shows promise for managing various health conditions. However, responsible use of cannabis can help to avoid any potential risks. Thus, you can connect with our doctors at My Florida Green to embark on your cannabis journey. We can help you learn how to get an MMJ card and improve your quality of life.
