It’s estimated that there are 3.6 million state-legal medical cannabis patients in the United States. Currently, 35 states have legalized medical marijuana, and more have started the process of doing so.
The use of legal medical marijuana didn’t start until the late 1990s. But since then, millions of people have begun to see and reap the benefits that it can offer.
However, you may still be asking, “what is medicinal cannabis, and what can it be used for?”
If you think you’d like to start your medicinal cannabis journey, keep reading our guide below for all the answers you need.
What Is Medicinal Cannabis?
Table of Contents
Medicinal cannabis refers to cannabis products that are derived from the cannabis plant. They’re used to treat medical conditions, illnesses, and diseases.
It’s often the same product that’s used for recreational purposes, but may have different levels of cannabinoids and terpenes.
Cannabinoids are the compounds found in the cannabis plant that provide medicinal effects. The 2 most common are cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). CBD binds with the CB2 receptors in your body, while THC binds with the CB1 receptors in your brain.
Terpenes in cannabis provide its flavor profile and when combined with cannabinoids, can alter the effects of the various strains. For example, some terpenes can help reduce nausea, while others have anti-inflammatory properties.
What Is Medicinal Cannabis Used For?
As hinted at above, medicinal cannabis has many therapeutic benefits.
While the FDA still hasn’t approved medicinal marijuana for any medical indication, it’s still often prescribed to treat the following conditions:
- HIV
- Nausea associated with chemotherapy
- Multiple sclerosis
- Glaucoma
- IBS
- Crohn’s disease
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Epilepsy
Strains that are high in CBD help to provide relaxation effects on the body. They can help reduce chronic pain and inflammation and soothe sore muscles. CBD can also help to increase appetite and calm down nerves.
Strains that have a balance of THC and CBD can help to reduce stress and anxiety. These strains can also help with insomnia.
Types of Medicinal Cannabis
The 3 main types of medicinal cannabis strains are sativa, indica, and hybrid.
Sativa strains are best for daytime use, as they have more energizing properties. Indica strains have more relaxing effects, so they’re often saved for nighttime use.
Hybrids have a combination of both. They can be perfectly balanced or lean more one way or the other.
You can find strains high in CBD, high in THC, or strains with a one-to-one ratio. Just note, the higher the THC content, the more psychoactive properties, so you’ll feel an intoxicating effect.
You can find medical marijuana flower, which you would then smoke via blunts, bongs, joints, or bowls. There are medical cannabis concentrates, which you can use to vape or dab.
There are also tons of medical marijuana edibles, which range from baked goods to full-course meals. If you’re interested in eating your medical cannabis, learn more here.
Thinking of Trying Medicinal Cannabis?
Now you know the answer to “what is medicinal cannabis” and have become a medicinal cannabis expert.
If you think medicinal cannabis could benefit you, consider signing up for your state’s medical card today. There are many benefits of doing so; just make sure to consult with your doctor to ensure it’s the right product for you.
If you’d like to read more lifestyle articles like this one, browse through the various sections on our website!