As various facets of the American healthcare system continue to falter, many individuals are turning to alternative treatment options. A notable example is medical cannabis, which is now legal in multiple states with appropriate certification. If you have a friend who’s a cannabis enthusiast—or you happen to be one yourself—chances are you’ve heard about the potential health benefits of marijuana. Some individuals seem to believe that cannabis can remedy nearly any physical or mental ailment, or at least enhance your overall well-being.
But what are the real advantages of cannabinoids? What are the specific medical conditions that qualify individuals for a medical marijuana card in certain states? We’ve got the answers. Here’s what you need to know.
What is Medical Cannabis?
Commonly referred to as medical marijuana, medical cannabis is derived from the cannabis sativa plant and is utilized to alleviate pain and other chronic symptoms associated with various medical conditions. While the cannabis sativa plant contains numerous active compounds, two of the most discussed are THC (delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). According to the Mayo Clinic, THC is the primary component in cannabis responsible for the psychoactive effects.
When THC enters the body, it attaches to cannabinoid receptors on neurons in specific brain areas, which can alter numerous mental and physical functions, as noted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Cannabinoids can yield various effects—both positive and negative. On the positive side, they may induce feelings of euphoria and enhance sensory perception. On the downside, they can cause tachycardia (a heart rate exceeding 100 beats per minute), difficulty concentrating, and memory issues.
Medicinal marijuana comes in several forms, including:
- Vaporizing oil
- Tablets
- Topical solutions
- Oral liquids
- Dried leaves and buds
What Are the Health Benefits?
Cannabinoids offer several health benefits and can significantly improve the quality of life for those dealing with chronic pain, inflammation, or a lack of appetite. Some of the notable benefits of cannabis, as highlighted in a 2007 study, include relief from conditions like:
- Loss of appetite
- Frequent vomiting
- Pain
- Inflammation
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Other mental health issues, including bipolar disorder and schizophrenia
What Are the Side Effects?
Like any medication, cannabis has its share of side effects. It’s essential to understand how medical marijuana might affect you before use. Possible side effects include:
- Mood alterations
- Difficulty concentrating
- Urinary retention
- Problems with problem-solving
- Lack of coordination
- Increased appetite
- Constipation
- Slurred speech
How Can You Obtain Medical Cannabis?
While medical cannabis isn’t federally legal yet, 36 states, along with Washington D.C., Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, have established comprehensive medical marijuana programs according to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL). In most of these states, acquiring medical cannabis requires a medical marijuana card or other approved identification.
The process for obtaining a medical marijuana card varies by state, which determines both its legality and the qualifications for obtaining a card. Even in states where it is legal, the availability of dispensaries can differ significantly, as each state sets its own regulations regarding the type and potency of medical cannabis sold.
The range of medical conditions that qualify for a medical marijuana card varies from state to state. Some states recognize 17 specific conditions, while others list over 20. Below are some common qualifying conditions:
- ADHD
- ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis)
- Anorexia
- Arthritis
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Cancer
- Chronic pain
- PTSD
- Multiple sclerosis
- Fibromyalgia
If you’re interested in cultivating your own medical cannabis, you’ll first need to find and legally purchase seeds. State laws dictate the legality of buying cannabis seeds.
Cannabis Industry Terminology
As you explore the cannabis world, you may encounter some unfamiliar terms. Here are some key definitions to help you navigate:
- Aeroponics: A method of growing cannabis without soil, where plants are suspended in the air.
- Alcohol extraction: This process involves using ethyl or isopropyl alcohol to extract essential oils and trichomes from the cannabis plant.
- Butane hash oil extraction: A technique where cannabis flowers are treated with butane to create resin or wax.
- Dab: A small quantity of concentrated cannabis heated at high temperatures, often inhaled through vapor.
- Dispensary: A legally licensed store that sells both medicinal and recreational cannabis.
- Edible: Cannabis-infused food products like cookies or gummies, which typically contain high levels of THC or CBD.
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Summary: Medical cannabis presents an alternative treatment option for various medical conditions, with a range of potential health benefits and side effects. Its legal status varies by state, and obtaining a medical marijuana card involves understanding specific qualifying conditions. With the rise of interest in cannabis, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the industry’s terminology and regulations.
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