Medicinal Cannabis
What is medical cannabis?
Medicinal cannabis has been used for thousands of years as a natural remedy for various ailments.
With the legalization of cannabis in many countries, there has been a renewed interest in the therapeutic benefits of the plant. Today, medicinal cannabis is used to treat a wide range of conditions, from chronic pain to anxiety and depression.
Pain Relief
One of the most well-known benefits of medicinal cannabis is its ability to relieve pain.
The active compounds in cannabis, known as cannabinoids, interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating pain and inflammation. Studies have shown that cannabis can be effective in treating chronic pain caused by conditions such as multiple sclerosis, arthritis, and cancer.
Reducing Anxiety and Depression
Cannabis has also been shown to have a positive impact on mental health.
Many people use cannabis to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. The compounds in cannabis can help to regulate mood and promote feelings of relaxation and calmness.
Reducing Nausea and Vomiting
Medicinal cannabis can also be used to alleviate symptoms of nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy and other treatments for cancer. The cannabinoids in cannabis can help to reduce the severity of these symptoms and improve overall quality of life for cancer patients.
Improving Sleep
Another benefit of medicinal cannabis is its ability to improve sleep quality.
Many people struggle with insomnia or other sleep disorders, and cannabis can be an effective natural remedy. The compounds in cannabis can help to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, which can lead to better sleep quality and duration.
Reducing Inflammation
In addition to its pain-relieving properties, cannabis also has anti-inflammatory properties.
This means that it can be effective in treating conditions that are caused by inflammation, such as Crohn's disease and Rheumatoid arthritis.
Fewer side effects
Compared to many prescription medications, medicinal cannabis has fewer side effects and is safer to take.
Many pharmaceutical drugs have the potential to cause serious side effects, such as addiction, liver damage, and gastrointestinal problems. Cannabis, on the other hand, is a natural remedy that is generally well-tolerated by the body.
Accessibility
Medicinal cannabis is legal for medical use in Australia and can be prescribed by a suitably trained doctor. This means that patients can access cannabis-based treatments without having to resort to illegal or dangerous methods. The difference between medicinal cannabis and street cannabis is that, unlike cannabis that is grown and sold illegally, the quality and purity of medicinal cannabis is carefully controlled. This means the components and dose, and therefore the effects, are more predictable, consistent and controlled.
If you are considering using medicinal cannabis as a treatment option, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if it is the right treatment for you and the appropriate dosage and method of administration. With the right guidance, medicinal cannabis can be a safe and effective way to improve your overall health and wellbeing. Dr Mike Levy is qualified to prescribe medicinal cannabis and is an Authorised Prescriber - this means he can prescribe immediately and there are no delays waiting for government approval.