In recent years, medicinal cannabis has been gaining popularity as a therapeutic aid. While it’s been subject to a bit of controversy across the years, medicinal cannabis is a growing field that’s only gaining momentum. Mindsets are evolving, and the natural companion to that evolution is a greater acceptance of natural, holistic, or alternative treatments.
On April 1st 2020, the Medicinal Cannabis Scheme came into effect in New Zealand. That opened the door for medical cannabis Auckland specialists like us to improve access to quality medicinal cannabis products for the patients who really need them. With that as our goal, we’d like to take you on a tour through some essential knowledge about this treatment.
Also known as medical marijuana, medicinal cannabis involves the prescription of either THC, CBD, or both as a holistic treatment. This has been a debated topic for a long time, but with more research coming out every day, it’s gained substantial recognition in the medical community.
It’s important to make the distinction between recreational and medicinal cannabis because they’re used for two completely different reasons. While recreational marijuana is about chasing a ‘high’, medicinal cannabis seeks only to treat symptoms of underlying disorders. You can also access products that don’t result in a high at all.
There are two main cannabinoids present in medical marijuana: CBD and THC. These are the most common ‘ingredients’ and the ones that act on your brain’s receptors.
THC – or tetrahydrocannabinol – is the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. This means when it hits a patient’s brain receptors, it produces the ‘high’ often associated with this substance. This can make people feel relaxed and sleepy or even stimulate their appetite. THC is also associated with anti-inflammatory or antioxidant properties.
CBD – or cannabidiol – is thought to have an anti-psychoactive effect. Rather than contributing to the high, it actually helps to pull it back. It’s
As a holistic product centred on natural treatment, medical cannabis has potential applications for a wide range of different conditions. Its main function is to relieve negative symptoms, although there are ongoing studies to determine whether certain strains or concentrations can have long-term health benefits.
Let’s review just a few of the conditions on the ever-growing list of those being treated with medical cannabis in Auckland.
Widely acknowledged for its pain-relieving properties, medicinal cannabis is helpful for patients who deal with discomfort on a day-to-day basis.
From neuropathic or nerve damage pain to migraines and muscle spasms, ongoing studies suggest that the CBD in marijuana lowers inflammation and interacts with neurotransmitters. In other words, it acts on the underlying symptoms of the pain to help reduce its effects.
CBD also has applications with seizure disorders like epilepsy. Research shows that CBD has potential anti-epileptic properties, meaning it can help counteract seizures or treat them long-term.
However, it’s crucial to note that THC – the other most common cannabinoid in marijuana – has been known to induce seizures rather than stop them. For that reason, safe cannabis-derived oils for the purpose of seizure treatment in NZ are still being developed.
Marijuana is well-known for its ability to induce a joyful ‘high’ when taken recreationally, but it has other applications when taken as a prescription. For people who want to stabilise their mood and holistically manage their depression or anxiety, low-THC strains are generally recommended.
Once again, as with all treatments, this applies on a case-by-case basis. It’s important to seek professional guidance if you’re wondering about treating your mental health with any substance, marijuana included.
Cancer treatment (as well as the disease itself) comes with a host of extremely uncomfortable symptoms. Some of these can include nausea, loss of appetite, and daily pain.
With its ability to stimulate the appetite and reduce pain, medical cannabis is an excellent way to manage these symptoms, providing comfort in an incredibly challenging time.
Multiple sclerosis is well-known for causing deep and ongoing muscle spasms or pain. Medicinal marijuana can act as a muscle relaxant alongside dulling the pain felt from this chronic condition, making it a well-suited choice among multiple sclerosis patients.
In summary, medical marijuana is a holistic substance with a variety of potential applications. It has the power to help people find comfort and support while dealing with a lot of hurt, but it’s essential to access this substance safely, responsibly, and with the help of professionals to guide the way.
If you’re considering medical cannabis as a pathway for you, make sure to do your research and always consult registered healthcare professionals before making any health decisions.
Knowing whether you qualify for access to medicinal cannabis is the first step in the process, and the next is to find a reliable dispenser. With Green Doctors, you have both.
Discover Natural Relief with Green Doctors, the premium consultants and dispensers of medical cannabis in Auckland. Contact Green Doctors today to begin your journey to a healthier, more holistic lifestyle.
