The list is long if you’ve looked for pharmaceuticals or other natural remedies to help just about any disease, syndrome, or problem. Perhaps you’ve tried a few and they didn’t work, or maybe you’d prefer medicating as naturally as possible.
If you’ve been curious about trying medical marijuana to treat your condition or ailment, you’re in the right place. Let’s get right to it: is medical cannabis right for you?
Medical cannabis treats a variety of conditions.
You probably already know that medical marijuana has a number of well known health benefits (plus some lesser known benefits) and can treat a large variety of conditions. For that reason, many patients have been turning to cannabis over pharmaceutical options.
To start, one of the best things you can do is research your condition as it relates to marijuana. Then be your own advocate and talk to your doctor, who will be able to confirm whether medical marijuana will be a good fit for your symptoms.
Get comfortable with cannabis strains.
Not all marijuana strains are created equally. They differ greatly based on their levels of THC (more energizing) vs. CBD (more calming). Depending on your needs, it’s important to do your research and be communicative with your doctor and/or dispensary in order to get the strain that best fits what you’re looking for.
Sativa, indica, and hybrids have very different effects on the body and the mind. For instance, sativa is better known for increasing energy and decreasing stress or anxiety, while indica is better known for being a relaxing and calming strain that is great for those who have trouble sleeping. As you can guess, hybrids have a mix of both elements.
Medical marijuana consumption also varies.
If you don’t want to smoke or vape your cannabis, no problem. There are plenty of other ways to consume medical marijuana. Edibles and topical ointments are forms that plenty of patients enjoy.
Dosage also comes into play with cannabis consumption. Start low and go slow when dosing to determine the best amount for you, your body, and your symptoms. Again, your doctor and/or local dispensary can really help with any questions you have when it comes to consumption.
Be mindful of the side effects.
As with many things, overuse or abusive use of medical marijuana can cause negative side effects. Symptoms like panic attacks, uneasiness, or paranoia can commonly occur for new users who don’t have a tolerance or who aren’t used to taking cannabis.
The best thing you can do is start low and get a sense of the effects for you personally.
Start the conversation with your doctor or cannabis practitioner today to see if medical marijuana is a good fit. Then keep our list in mind as you partake!
At Hive Medicinal, we’d love to help with your medical marijuana needs as your local Maine dispensary. Take a look at our current products or, better yet, stop by in person!
