Essence Dispensary

Medical Cannabis: Benefits & Side Effects

In recent years, the world has been taken by storm as doctors, scientists, governments, and patients are being made aware of the benefits of cannabis, or as some may call it, “weed”. However, there is still some understandable scepticism about whether or not the benefits of medical marijuana outweigh the side effects. Today, Essence Dispensary wants to give some clarity about questions such as ‘Does medical marijuana get you high?’ or ‘Are there any negative side effects of medical weed?’ 

 

Of course, there are some medical cannabis side effects, but the benefits of marijuana are genuinely astonishing, providing much-needed medical treatment to people who would otherwise suffer tremendously. Let’s explore the plethora of medical marijuana benefits while discussing the side effects. Hopefully, this blog will help you decide whether medical marijuana is the right option for you. 

Exploring the Benefits of Medical Marijuana

The Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care has been working closely with the World Health Organisation to conduct multiple trials exploring the benefits of medical marijuana. So far, it is clear that the conditions medical marijuana can help patients with include the following: 

Chronic Pain

Nausea

Epilepsy and Seizures

Multiple Sclerosis and Muscle Spasms

Alzheimer’s Disease

Crohn’s Disease

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Side-Effects of Cancer Treatment

The benefits of medical weed don’t stop there.

Numerous studies are being carried out every single day to discover more and more treatments for medical marijuana, giving us an in-depth understanding of its incredible benefits. Every year, new patients are discovering the tremendous changes medical cannabis can make to their lives. 

Our team, along with various others, are dedicated to bringing this much-needed treatment to people in Australia and beyond.

Therapeutic Advantages:

How the Benefits of Weed Alleviate Chronic Pain

One of the primary reasons individuals require a prescription for medical marijuana is chronic pain. The active compound in marijuana is cannabinoids, which are magnificent for interacting with the body’s pain receptors without causing the damage other painkillers do. The benefits of marijuana can provide immense support for those suffering from arthritis, neuropathy, fibromyalgia, and much more.

Understanding Consumption Methods:

Comparing the Benefits of Cannabis Use via Smoking, Tinctures, and Edibles

Medicinal cannabis can be consumed through various methods, including smoking, vaping, topical application, edibles, and tinctures. Each method offers unique benefits and is suited to different patient needs.

It is important to consult a medical professional to determine which consumption method is best suited for your individual needs and condition.

Inhalation

Inhalation methods, such as smoking and vaping, provide rapid relief from symptoms. This can be highly advantageous for individuals suffering from chronic pain, Parkinson’s disease, or acute conditions like panic attacks and sleep disorders. The effects of inhalation are felt within minutes but typically wear off after a few hours.

Ingestion

For patients who prefer not to inhale, or who need longer-lasting relief, edibles and tinctures are excellent alternatives. Edibles involve ingesting cannabis, and tinctures are liquid forms often administered beneath the tongue. These methods can take up to an hour to take effect but can provide relief lasting up to eight hours, making them suitable for prolonged symptom management.

A Comprehensive Overview of Medical Weed Benefits

Medical marijuana has become an option for a second line treatment for hundreds of illnesses, injuries, and disorders worldwide. Upon consuming it, the benefits of medicinal weed are truly extraordinary. It is brilliant for tackling so many things that begin to hit us as we get older. Besides pain relief, here is a list of some symptoms medical cannabis can help with: 

Medical Marijuana’s uses cover an enormous selection of illnesses and symptoms, offering a holistic approach to improving our physical and mental well-being. If you struggle with any of the symptoms above, maybe it is time to explore your options. If you have any questions about the benefits of medicinal marijuana, feel free to join us anytime, and we will provide all the guidance and advice you need to make an informed decision.

close-up-medical-treatment-table

Understanding the Common Side Effects of Medical Marijuana

Though the benefits of weed are positive, there are some side effects worth being aware of before choosing this treatment method. Though these side effects aren’t particularly severe, they can cause some people discomfort, so it is essential to understand them. 

Some of the most common side effects of medical weed include dizziness, increased heart rate, impaired cognitive function, and dry mouth. Additionally, with prolonged usage of higher doses, some people may experience anxiety or paranoia. Though these side effects can be highly unpleasant, it is important to understand that they are only temporary and can be easily managed. Understanding them and consulting a GP can help us be prepared and know what to do if they occur. 

How to Manage the Side Effects of Medical Weed

As we mentioned, the side effects of medical weed are usually temporary and can easily be managed.

Sticking to the recommended dosage, using trusted brands, staying hydrated, and having a medical regime which includes both THC and CBD are the first steps we can take towards ensuring the likelihood of adverse side effects is minimised.

Before beginning any treatment, it is essential to consult a professional healthcare provider, and if you experience any of these side effects, let them know, and they can address them immediately.

As for long-term effects, there are some ongoing studies that suggest unregulated and excessive cannabis use may lead to respiratory issues, dependency, or cognitive impairment.

Studies show that the risk of addiction to cannabis is lower than the risk of addiction to caffeine and alcohol.

Medical professionals will have access to all current research and will provide the advice needed to ensure the safety and well-being of their patients.

The Role Medical Cannabis Plays in Modern Medicine

As we begin to understand the benefits of medical marijuana, the attitudes of medical professionals around the world are evolving. In many countries, the legalisation is enabling patients to have access to medical cannabis products, and the treatment is being integrated with mainstream medicines. With the combination of traditional pharmaceuticals and these holistic approaches, healthcare providers are now able to treat a plethora of medical conditions much more effectively. We are thrilled that in Australia, people have access to the benefits of marijuana, allowing us to continue our journey of promoting the health and well-being of citizens far and wide. 

Some of the most common side effects of medical weed include dizziness, increased heart rate, impaired cognitive function, and dry mouth. Additionally, with prolonged usage of higher doses, some people may experience anxiety or paranoia. Though these side effects can be highly unpleasant, it is important to understand that they are only temporary and can be easily managed. Understanding them and consulting a GP can help us be prepared and know what to do if they occur. 

FAQs

Here’s a quick look at some of the most frequently asked questions we get:

Can Medical Cannabis Be Used Alongside Other Medications?

It absolutely can! It is common for medical cannabis to be used alongside other medications to enhance the treatment of various conditions. However, before moving forward, it is essential to seek the guidance of a professional healthcare provider to ensure the two treatments will work well together. Though the benefits of medicinal cannabis are impressive, it is something that requires consultation to ensure regulation and safe practice. 

What Should First-Time Users Know About Medical Cannabis?

The most essential thing is to consult a professional to ensure the treatment is carried out effectively. To experience the benefits of medical weed correctly, the dosage should start low to assess a patient’s response and tolerance. Your doctor can give you all the guidance you need to ensure you are using a reputable dispensary and following the treatment accordingly. 

Find Out More

If you would like to know more about CBD and cannabis products and how they can help you, Essence Dispensary is here to help. We are a patient-centric dispensary dedicated to the well-being and individual needs of every client.