Medical cannabis, also known as medical marijuana, is a term used to describe the whole, unprocessed plant or its extracts to relieve certain health conditions. There are different types of marijuana available, each with its benefits and drawbacks.
What are the types of Medical Cannabis?
Under federal law, marijuana is a Schedule I drug with no accepted medical use. However, fourteen states and the District of Columbia have legalized its medicinal use to varying degrees following the Americans for Safe Access (ASA), thus creating confusion regarding laws about its production and consumption.
The following are different types of medical cannabis:
1. Flower
The most common form of marijuana is typically smoked or ingested in food and drinks. The basic premise is that the flower contains cannabinoid chemicals that interact with human endocannabinoid receptors to control pain, nausea, inflammation, and other symptoms associated with certain health conditions.
2. Concentrates
A highly potent form, usually smoke-free. Concentrates are created through the extraction process using solvents to produce oils, waxes, and resin with high concentrations of cannabinoids.
3. Edibles
Edible products can take forms, including baked goods, candies, teas, and tinctures. Edibles are especially popular for people who do not wish to inhale the smoke.
4. Tinctures
A liquid designed to be administered under the tongue or in pill form. Tinctures use alcohol and water as solvents and, therefore, should only be used before bed to avoid disrupting sleep.
5. Topicals
A cannabis-based product used on external body surfaces containing cannabinoids and other plant material.
6. Transdermal Patches
Designed to be applied to the skin, and contain small amounts of THC oil or gel, which can then slowly release into the system over time.
7. Suppositories
These are cannabis-based products that are designed to be inserted into the rectum. Suppositories are often used for those who have difficulty ingesting it, but they can also help treat inflammatory bowel disorders.
Which states allow Medical Cannabis?
Currently, 23 states and the District of Columbia have legalized medical marijuana, while four states (Colorado, Washington, Oregon, and Alaska) have legalized recreational marijuana.
According to the ASA, medical and recreational legalization is spreading quickly across the country, with 23 states currently having laws that remove criminal penalties for purchasing or possessing marijuana for medical uses. However, due to current federal law, many of these states still do not have active programs allowing residents to obtain marijuana legally and must rely on the honor system to regulate access.
In addition, two states (Minnesota and New York) are expected to pass medical legislation this year, with a handful of other states working towards legislation that allows residents to possess limited quantities for medical reasons. Currently, nearly half of all Americans live in states authorizing it for medicinal use, and three-quarters of Americans support legalizing medical marijuana.
How does it work?
Marijuana contains terpenes, cannabinoids, and flavonoids, which cause a sensation of euphoria. The THC in cannabis acts on cannabinoid receptors in the body but not necessarily directly liberating pleasure-inducing serotonin-like other familiar psychoactive drugs such as cocaine or heroin.
The endocannabinoid system was discovered in the early 1990s and is composed of cannabinoid receptors, which are proteins located throughout the human body, and compounds that bind to these proteins, such as THC. These receptors control many critical bodily functions, including appetite, pain-sensation, mood, and memory.
The most common type is THC-rich
This contains high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana that gives users the “high” feeling. THC-rich can effectively treat various health conditions, such as pain relief, nausea, and appetite stimulation. However, it can also cause undesirable side effects, such as anxiety and paranoia.
Another type is CBD-rich, which contains high cannabidiol (CBD). CBD is a non-psychoactive compound in marijuana that has been shown to have various medicinal properties, such as anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. CBD-rich products can help treat chronic pain, anxiety, and seizure disorders.
It can also be found in oils, tinctures, edibles, and topical creams.
Marijuana oils are extracts that contain high levels of THC or CBD. Tinctures are liquid extracts taken orally or added to food or drink. Edibles are food items that have been infused with cannabis extract. Topical creams are used to treat localized pain and inflammation.
The type of product that is best for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using marijuana, as they can help you choose the right product and dosage for your specific condition.
It’s been used medicinally for centuries, with records showing its use in China and ancient Greece.
The modern-day medical marijuana movement began in the United States in the 1970s, when patients and doctors began pushing for its legalization. In 1996, California became the first US state to legalize it. Since then, many other states have followed suit. In 2018, Canada became the second country to legalize it for medicinal use.
Medical cannabis is now legal in many countries worldwide, and its use is multiplying. As more research is conducted on the potential medical benefits, even more uses will likely be discovered.
