Medical marijuana is a therapeutic approach to holistic healing in recent times. Due to the ongoing research on the properties of medical cannabis, there has been a surge in its demand in Florida. Particularly after the passage of Amendment 2 in 2016, many individuals are considering medical marijuana products for health. However, with increased demand, there is also a rising interest in navigating its characteristics and benefits. Moreover, many individuals wonder what marijuana smells like and what causes its aroma.
In this article, we will discuss the various compounds present in medical marijuana that contribute to its smell. Moreover, we will explain how you can benefit from marijuana for medical problems.
What is Marijuana and what does it smell like?
Marijuana is a derivative of the Cannabis Sativa plant with a healing nature. It contains THC and CBD along with certain other constituents that play a role in its therapeutic effects.
THC is mostly known for its sedative nature, whereas, CBD is non-psychoactive with several health advantages. Medical marijuana is gaining significant attention for its effective nature in coping with certain health issues, including but not limited to glaucoma, multiple sclerosis, back pain, and depression.
Moreover, marijuana has a distinctive aroma often described as earthy, skunky, or pungent depending on the strain and type of the cannabis plant.
What Causes the Smell of Marijuana?
Research indicates that volatile sulfur compounds, terpenes, and flavonoids are among the aromatic compounds within cannabis that influence its scent, while their presence affects the plant’s overall aroma.
Moreover, the specific smell can be attributed to factors such as growing conditions, curing methods, and the presence of other aromatic compounds.
Let us take a look at the role of terpenes and how they influence the smell of marijuana.
Role of Terpenes
Terpenes are aromatic compounds naturally produced by cannabis plants. They play a major role in the plant’s taste, aroma, and therapeutic effects. Among some terpenes that contribute to the smell of marijuana are:
1. Limonene
It has a lemony aroma and is well-known for having both anxiolytic and antidepressant effects. Thus, it can help individuals cope with depression.
2. Myrcene
Myrene possesses anti-mutagenic and antibacterial characteristics, and can be used for medical purposes. It possesses therapeutic effects and has a range of medicinal uses.
3. Linalool
Found in cannabis, lavender, and cinnamon, linalool has a calming impact on users. It can reduce the cytopathic effects of the influenza virus due to its therapeutic capabilities.
4. Caryophyllene
It has a spicy aroma and is found in many marijuana strains. It possesses anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory effects.
Apart from terpenes, several other factors contribute to the aroma of marijuana, such as varying levels of THC and CBD. However, only a licensed medical marijuana expert can offer valuable insights into the various strains, THC/CBD constituents, and the way they affect the aroma of marijuana.
Potential Benefits of Medical Marijuana
Medical marijuana has a broad range of benefits to offer for patients struggling with chronic health issues and debilitating symptoms. Among some of the benefits of medical marijuana are:
1. Anxiety Relief
Medical marijuana contains various compounds that may contribute to anxiety relief such as THC, CBD, and terpenes. THC is known for its intoxicating effects, however, it can help to reduce anxiety when taken in low doses or as suggested by a medical marijuana doctor. On the contrary, Cannabidiol is non-intoxicating and can offer healing effects in the body.
When a person ingests marijuana, its essential compounds affect the functioning of the Endocannabinoid system responsible for mood, hunger, and sleep. Thus, medical marijuana can help offer anxiety relief along with traditional medicines.
2. Pain Management
Medical marijuana can help those grappling with pain such as arthritis pain, neuropathy, spasms, or pain related to chemotherapy. Although the exact mechanism of action is an area of ongoing research, medical marijuana compounds influence the ECS receptors CB1 and CB2, thereby easing pain sensation.
These receptors play a role in regulating pain perception and inflammation. By influencing these receptors, medical marijuana can potentially help reduce pain.
3. Appetite Stimulation
Medical marijuana can work along with traditional drugs as an appetite stimulant and assist those experiencing weight loss due to eating disorders. Research shows that THC can stimulate the release of ghrelin, a hormone that induces hunger. Moreover, it can influence the perception of taste and smell, making food more appealing.
However, medical marijuana’s appetite-inducing effects require further study, and only an expert can educate you on how this drug can be helpful for your particular issue.
Considering the Risk Factor
Despite the numerous medicinal advantages of medical marijuana, it is important to be mindful of its risks. In Florida, medical marijuana use is regulated by the Office of Medical Marijuana Use. Thus, it remains a controlled drug, and its misuse can have undesirable outcomes for health.
Furthermore, only those with any of the qualifying medical conditions for marijuana use can benefit from this drug as it may not be advantageous for every patient. Therefore, it is best to contact a medical marijuana doctor in Florida as they can curate a personalized treatment roadmap for your health issue.
Importance of getting a Medical Marijuana Card
If you are interested in medical marijuana use, it is best to get a medical marijuana card in Florida. The steps involved in card attainment are:
- Eligibility check
- Doctor Consultation
- Getting a recommendation
- Application process
- Card approval
You can locate a reputable MMJ doctor in your area to learn more about medical marijuana use in the Sunshine State. Moreover, they can help you understand the importance of a medical marijuana card.
The Takeaway
Medical marijuana is a soothing alternative drug that can be used in conjunction with traditional modes of treatment. Its smell is due to its molecular makeup, including terpenes and several other factors. However, only a medical marijuana doctor can guide you toward this type of alternative treatment. My Florida Green experts can assist you on your path to wellness with MMJ, while also easing your medical marijuana card acquisition process in Florida.
