More than half of the states in the US have legalized medical marijuana, but there still seems to be an ongoing conundrum about its use. Scientists, doctors, and politicians all seem to have individual passionate opinions about the matter. For the general public, the conflicting information either sways them in the right direction or ultimately discourages them about the issue.
What is the intended application of medical marijuana?
Most research on medical marijuana focuses on its efficacy to relieve pain. For many people, chronic pain can be a debilitating condition that affects their quality of life. And while marijuana isn’t exactly used for severe pain, it’s proven helpful in managing chronic pain, especially those associated with advanced age.
One of the reasons why using medical marijuana is appealing for pain control is that it’s safer compared to synthetic opioids. Also, there are many ways of consuming medical marijuana. For instance, you can prepare edibles with higher potency through Decarboxylation. Edibles are a more discreet and fun way of consuming Cannabis – perfect for first-timers.
Apart from pain relief, marijuana is also a muscle relaxant. People who have Parkinson’s disease use it to reduce the severity of tremors. Other degenerative disorders that result in chronic pain can use medical marijuana as a substitute for ordinary painkillers.
Potent strains and an overwhelming variety of cannabis products
The medical marijuana products you’ll find today aren’t the same as 30 years ago. Over the past several decades, growers and marijuana enthusiasts continue experimenting with strains that will result in the most potent products. For instance, the presence of THC varies from one strain to another. Of course, the higher the THC level, the more potent it will be. It’s also critical to understand the difference between THC and CBD, as there are many confusing product descriptions out there.
If it’s you’re first time trying medical marijuana, going to a cannabis store in person or buying online can be quite overwhelming as well. There are oils, tinctures, vape pens, edibles, and many other options available. It’s not uncommon to get swept up in the moment and buy more than what you need. What you need to ensure that the product complies with the cannabis regulations in your state so that you don’t end up buying an item that’s prohibited.
Consulting your doctor about using medical marijuana
Many people today are curious about the possibility of using medical marijuana to manage chronic pain. However, it’s common to feel hesitant about opening the topic with their doctor. One of the reasons for the hesitation is that the medical community remains divided on the positive effects of medical marijuana.
The best way to approach the issue is to be open and honest with your physician. You won’t know their stand on the matter unless you begin a discussion. It’s also best to be objective and understand various opinions before making a decision. Let your doctor know why you think trying medical marijuana will help alleviate your pain. You can also try reaching out to experts who are more knowledgeable about the legal and correct way of including medical marijuana in your health care regimen.