Contents
A step-by-step guide on how to use cannabis for medical purposes, including pain management, anxiety relief, and improving sleep.
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Introduction
Cannabis has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. The first recorded use of cannabis as a medicine was in 2737 BC by the Chinese emperor Shen Nung. Cannabis was listed in the United States Pharmacopeia from 1850 until 1942 and was prescribed for a variety of illnesses including labor pain, nausea, and rheumatism.
Cannabis fell out of favor as a medicine in the 1930s due to political and racial pressure. In 1996, California became the first state to legalize medical cannabis. As of 2018, thirty states and Washington D.C. have legalized medical cannabis.
Medical cannabis is used to treat a wide variety of conditions including pain, muscle spasms, nausea, anxiety, and seizures. It can be taken by mouth, inhaled, or applied topically. The form of cannabis that is most commonly used for medical purposes is CBD oil. CBD oil does not have the psychoactive effects of THC and can be purchased legally in all 50 states.
If you are interested in using cannabis for medical purposes, it is important to talk to your doctor first. Cannabis is not right for everyone and can interact with other medications you are taking. Your doctor can help you decide if medical cannabis is right for you and guide you on how to use it safely and effectively.
THC and CBD
There are two main types of cannabinoids found in cannabis: THC and CBD. THC is the psychoactive compound that causes the “high” associated with marijuana use. CBD does not produce a high but is credited with many of the plant’s medicinal properties. The ratio of THC to CBD plays a role in the effects cannabis has on the body. Diluted products tend to have higher levels of CBD and lower levels of THC.
The Endocannabinoid System
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a collection of cannabinoid receptors located throughout the body. These receptors are activated by either endocannabinoids, which are naturally produced by the body, or phytocannabinoids, which are found in cannabis.
The ECS is involved in a variety of physiological processes, including pain regulation, immune function, sleep, and appetite. When activated, these processes can help to alleviate symptoms associated with various medical conditions.
Cannabis for medical purposes can be used in a variety of ways, including smoking, vaporizing, ingesting edibles, and applying topicals. The most effective method of delivery will vary depending on the individual and their condition.
Smoking: Smoking cannabis is one of the quickest ways to feel the effects as the cannabinoids are absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the lungs. This method is not recommended for those with respiratory conditions or sensitivities.
Vaporizing: Vaporizing cannabis involves heating the plant material to a temperature where the cannabinoids are released as a vapor without combustion. This method is less harmful to the lungs than smoking and can be more effective in delivering therapeutic doses of cannabinoids.
Ingesting edibles: Edibles are cannabis-infused foods or drinks that can be swallowed and absorbed through the digestive system. Edibles can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to take effect, depending on how much food is in the stomach. Because they must go through digestion, edibles tend to have longer-lasting effects than other methods of delivery.
Topicals: Topical products are applied directly to the skin and can be used to treat localized pain and inflammation. Topicals are not psychoactive and will not produce any mind-altering effects.
Conditions That Cannabis Can Treat
Cannabis has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of medical conditions, including:
-Cancer
-Chronic pain
-Arthritis
-Anorexia
-Migraines
-Depression
-Anxiety
-Insomnia
How to Use Cannabis for Medical Purposes
Many people are using cannabis for medical purposes these days. There are many different ways to use cannabis, and each person may have their own method that works best for them. Some people smoke cannabis, while others use cannabis oil or edibles. Let’s take a closer look at how to use cannabis for medical purposes.
Ingesting Cannabis
There are a few different ways that you can ingest cannabis for medical purposes. You can smoke it, vape it, eat it, or use a tincture.
Smoking:
Smoking cannabis is one of the quickest ways to feel the effects of THC. It can also be one of the most harsh on your lungs. If you do smoke, try using a water pipe or bong to help filter the smoke. You can also roll it into a joint with tobacco or another herb to help cut down on the harshness.
Vaping:
Vaping is becoming a popular way to consume cannabis as it is less harsh on the lungs than smoking and doesn’t produce any smell. Vaping also allows you to control your dosage more easily than smoking. You will need to purchase a cannabis vaporizer in order to vape properly.
Eating:
You can make cannabis-infused edibles at home or purchase them from a dispensary. Edibles take longer to take effect than smoking or vaping, but the effects last much longer – up to 12 hours in some cases. Start with a low dose (5-10mg) and wait at least 2 hours before taking more. Edibles can be very potent, so be careful not to overdo it!
Tinctures:
Tinctures are another way to ingest cannabis that is becoming more popular due to their ease of use and discretion. Tinctures are made by steeping cannabis in alcohol and then straining out the plant material. They can be taken by placing a few drops under your tongue or adding them to food or drink. Start with a low dose (1-5mg) and wait at least an hour before taking more.
Applying Cannabis Topically
Applying cannabis topically is a great way to enjoy the medicinal benefits of cannabis without experiencing any psychoactive effects. Cannabis topical products are made by infusing CBD or THC into an oil, which is then applied to the skin.
THC-infused topical products are effective in treating pain, inflammation, and muscle spasms. CBD-infused topical products are great for treating skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema, as well as pain and inflammation.
Topical cannabis products can be found in a variety of forms, including lotions, salves, balms, and oils.
Smoking or Vaping Cannabis
Smoking or vaping cannabis is the most common way to use it for medical purposes. You can smoke or vape dried cannabis flowers or leaves, or concentrated forms of cannabis such as hashish, oil and wax.
To smoke or vape cannabis, you will need:
-Cannabis
-A smoking device such as a pipe, bong or joint, or a vaporizer
If you are new to using cannabis, start with a small amount. The effects of smoking or vaping can be felt almost immediately, but they will also wear off relatively quickly compared to other ways of using it. This can be an advantage if you need relief from symptoms but do not want to feel the effects for a long period of time.
Smoking or vaping dried cannabis flowers or leaves is the most common way to use it for medical purposes. You can also smoke or vape concentrated forms of cannabis such as hashish, oil and wax.
Conclusion
We hope this guide has been helpful in informing you about how to use cannabis for medical purposes. As always, it is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions about your health and well-being.
