As many facets of the American healthcare system continue to let us down, individuals are increasingly exploring alternative treatment options. One of the most notable examples is medical cannabis, which is legally available (with the right credentials) in numerous states. If you have a friend who enjoys cannabis or if you are that friend—no judgment here—you’ve likely heard about the various medicinal benefits associated with marijuana. Some individuals believe that cannabis can alleviate nearly any physical or mental ailment or, at the very least, enhance your overall mood.
But what are the true health benefits of cannabinoids? What are the specific qualifying medical conditions that may allow you to obtain a medical marijuana card in certain states? You have questions, and we have answers. Here’s what you need to know.
What is Medical Cannabis?
Also referred to as medical marijuana, medical cannabis includes derivatives of the cannabis sativa plant used to alleviate pain and other chronic symptoms associated with various medical conditions. While cannabis sativa contains numerous active compounds, the two most prominent are THC (delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). According to the Mayo Clinic, THC is the primary component responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis.
When THC enters the body, it binds to molecules called cannabinoid receptors found on neurons in specific brain areas. This interaction can disrupt various mental and physical functions, as explained by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Cannabinoids can produce several effects—both positive and negative. On the positive side, they may induce feelings of euphoria and heightened sensory perception. On the downside, they can lead to increased heart rate, difficulty concentrating, and memory issues.
There are various forms of medicinal marijuana, including:
- Vaporizing oils
- Pills
- Topical applications
- Oral solutions
- Dried leaves and buds
What Are the Health Benefits?
Cannabinoids offer numerous health benefits and can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from chronic pain, inflammation, or lack of appetite. Some documented benefits of cannabis include alleviating symptoms related to:
- Loss of appetite
- Frequent vomiting
- Pain
- Inflammation
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Other mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia
What Are the Side Effects?
Like any medication, cannabis has its share of side effects. It’s essential to consider how medical marijuana might affect you before using it. Possible side effects include:
- Mood changes
- Urinary retention
- Difficulty thinking clearly or concentrating
- Trouble solving problems
- Impaired coordination
- Increased appetite
- Constipation
- Slurred speech
How Can You Obtain Medical Cannabis?
Medical cannabis is not yet federally legal. However, the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) reports that 36 states, along with the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, have established comprehensive medical marijuana programs. In most states where medical cannabis is legal, individuals must possess a medical marijuana card or another form of approved identification.
The process for acquiring a medical marijuana card varies by state, as each state determines its legal stance and eligibility criteria. Even in states where medical cannabis is legal, dispensaries may have different offerings based on state regulations.
The medical conditions that qualify someone for a medical marijuana card differ between states. Some states have as few as 17 qualifying conditions, while others may have over 20. Here are several qualifying conditions that may allow individuals to obtain a medical marijuana card, though these vary by state:
- ADHD
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- Anorexia
- Arthritis
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Cachexia (wasting syndrome)
- Cancer
- Cerebral palsy
- Chronic pain
- Crohn’s disease
- Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE)
- Complex regional pain syndrome
- Epilepsy (seizures)
- Fibromyalgia
- Glaucoma
- Hepatitis C
- HIV/AIDS
- Hydrocephalus
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Multiple sclerosis
- Muscle spasms
- Parkinson’s disease
- Peripheral neuropathy
- PTSD
- Sickle cell anemia
- Spinal cord injury
- Terminal illness
- Tourette’s syndrome
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Ulcerative colitis
If you’re interested in growing your own medical cannabis, you must locate and legally acquire seeds. Remember that state laws dictate the legality of medical cannabis seeds and who is permitted to purchase them.
Key Terminology in the Cannabis Industry
While cannabis is a straightforward herb, navigating the cannabis industry may introduce unfamiliar terminology. Here are a few essential terms to know:
- Aeroponics: A method of growing cannabis suspended in the air rather than in soil.
- Alcohol extraction: A technique used to extract essential oils and trichomes from the cannabis plant using ethyl or isopropyl alcohol.
- Butane hash oil extraction: A process where cannabis flowers are sprayed with butane to create resin or wax.
- Dab: A small amount of concentrated cannabis heated at high temperatures, providing significant effects when inhaled.
- Dispensary: A legally operated store selling cannabis products, both medicinal and recreational.
- Edible: Cannabis-infused foods, like cookies or gummies, that contain high levels of THC or CBD.
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Summary
As interest in alternative treatments grows, medical cannabis has emerged as a viable option for those seeking relief from various medical conditions. Understanding how to obtain a medical marijuana card, the associated benefits, and the potential side effects is crucial for anyone considering this path. With state-specific regulations and qualifying conditions varying widely, it’s essential to research thoroughly and consult healthcare professionals.