Studies have found that it actually promotes the development & growth of new brain cells. In studies of animals, cannabinoids (the substances found in marijuana, a.k.a., cannabis) actually increase brain cell growth. Scientists are also studying the role of marijuana in treating neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s & Lou Gehrig's disease.

Certain strains of marijuana have been bred to create an intense euphoria & heighten a recreational user’s senses. Over time, however, Medical Marijuana growers have developed strains of marijuana to focus solely on health benefits — some that can reduce or even eliminate psychoactivity.

Studies have also found that strains containing higher amounts of CBD rather than THC have a calming effect, rather than a euphoric “high.” Certain ratios of CBD to THC, typically from 1:1 to 4:1, can often buffer the psychoactivity of THC. This is recommended for neuropathy, migraines & PTSD, but always talk to your provider about specific ratios & products for your condition. They’re there to help you find your “just right” dose.

Studies have found that marijuana is used far more as an “exit drug” rather than a gateway drug. Medical Marijuana can be used to substitute alcohol, opioid & more dangerous illicit drug dependencies. In fact, states with recreational or Medical Marijuana programs have dramatically reduced opioid prescription & overdose rates.

Medical Cannabis should always be used with caution & under the direction of your healthcare provider. The risk of developing a cannabis-use dependency is higher for patients who use products with higher THC content or have a history of substance abuse or addiction. Physical addiction & withdrawal symptoms are rare.

Studies have shown that smoking marijuana over an exponential amount of time is associated with decreased lung & respiratory health. Patients seeking relief through Medical Marijuana can minimize long-term effects by reaching for a dry-herb vape over inhaled methods involving combustion. (Vaping cannabis flower in a dry herb vaporizer has not been linked to increased risk of lung disease according to the National Academy of Science 2017 report.) Patients may also find relief using other forms that don’t require inhalation, like edibles, topical creams, and liquid extracts (a.k.a., tinctures).

We’ve all heard the joke that marijuana causes “the munchies,” but on average, cannabis users have a lower Body Mass Index. Depending on the level of THC & other cannabinoids found in a marijuana product, it may cause an increase in appetite, which can be a desirable effect for some conditions. Medical Marijuana is commonly recommended to people suffering from eating disorders as an appetite stimulant. This property also comes in handy when dealing with chemotherapy-related nausea, which we’ve found cannabis treats in a much more effective way than some traditional prescription medications.