What is medical marijuana and why is it used?
Medical marijuana is cannabis that is used to treat a variety of medical conditions. The main active chemical in marijuana is THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is responsible for the majority of the psychoactive effects. CBD (cannabidiol) is another active chemical in marijuana that has a wide range of medical uses.
Marijuana has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. It was even mentioned in the ancient Chinese medical text, the Shennong Bencao Jing (circa 100 C.E.), as a treatment for a variety of conditions such as gout, rheumatism, malaria, and absent-mindedness.
The use of marijuana for medicinal purposes was legalized in a number of US states in the 1990s, and since then its use has been steadily growing. A number of studies have shown that medical marijuana can be effective in treating a variety of conditions, including:
Medical marijuana is usually taken in the form of an oral tincture, capsules, or edible. It can also be smoked, although this is not recommended for people with respiratory conditions.
The main side effects of medical marijuana are dry mouth, red eyes, and impaired memory and coordination. These effects are usually temporary and resolve within a few hours. If you experience any more serious side effects, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or an irregular heartbeat, you should seek medical assistance immediately.
Medical marijuana is a safe and effective treatment for a variety of medical conditions. If you think it might be right for you, talk to your doctor about getting a prescription.