A Comprehensive Guide On Cannabis

This blog primarily focuses on cannabis basics like what cannabis is, what its benefits are, how to use it recreationally, medical usage, side effects, whether it's legal to use Cannabis, etc.

What is Cannabis?

Cannabis, also defined as marijuana, is a psychoactive drug that is derived from the Cannabis plant. It consists of chemical compounds like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), which have significant effects on the human body and mind.

Why is Cannabis consumed?

It is primarily used due to its psychoactive properties, which bring out feelings of relaxation, euphoria, altered perception of time, and increased appetite levels. It even enjoys a therapeutic status and can be used for treating ailments like chronic pain, nausea, and certain neurological disorders.

What are the different kinds of Cannabis? How can it be used for medicinal or recreational purposes?

In the US market especially, there exists a variety of different strains and forms of Cannabis, which can either be smoked or in vapourised form. Some of the common types of Cannabis include:

● Indica: These strains are known to provide relaxing and sedative effects. They are often used for alleviating pain and muscle spasms and for treating insomnia. Their physical structure is such that they tend to be shorter and bushier with broad in size leaves.

● Sativa: Sativa strains are that kind of strains that are used for energising and uplifting, which makes them suitable for daytime usage also. They enhance the creativity quotient in you and bring out better focus. They are often used for the treatment of Depression and Fatigue. Their physical design is such that they are taller and thinner with narrower leaves.

● Hybrid: As the name itself suggests, Hybrid strains are a crossbreed of indica and sativa plants. They tend to combine the characteristics of both these kinds of Cannabis. They can either be indica dominant, sativa dominant, or balanced hybrids. They offer a wide range of effects and are popular for their versatile nature in addressing different needs.

● Ruderalis: This species of Cannabis is not very famous. It is native to regions with short growing seasons, like Russia and Central Asia. Though it contains lower levels of THC in comparison to India and sativa breeds, these plants are valued for their auto-flowering properties, which makes them much easier to cultivate.

● High THC strains: Such a strain contains higher levels of cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound that is known for its potential therapeutic advantages. These strains are often used for medical purposes like for the reduction of inflammation, anxiety, and seizures, and without causing significant intoxication.

● Landrace strains: These are indigenous cannabis varieties that have evolved naturally in specific geographic regions. They are usually named after their place of origin, like Afghan Kush or Thai Sativa. These landrace strains are often valued for their unique genetics and potential resilience to the local environmental conditions.

There are a number of Cannabis infused products as well. These include Edibles, Tinctures, Topicals, Suppositories, Cannabis inhalers, infused cooking oils, dabbing products, dissolvable powders, sublingual sprays, capsules, pills, vape pens, Gear, Flower, and Concentrates.

To be noted: It should be noted that the potency and effects of Cannabis products can vary widely depending on factors like the kind of cannabis strain that is used, the extraction method, along the product formulation. In addition, the amount of dosage or dosing is very crucial when consuming medicine in order to avoid overconsumption and adverse effects.

Benefits of Cannabis

Cannabinoids like THC and CBD have been studied for various potential therapeutic benefits. However, it should be duly noted that the research into cannabis effect is still ongoing. While some of the potential advantages may have been identified, more studies are needed to confirm and understand its effects fully. Some of the potential pros of Cannabis are:

● Pain relief: Cannabis is considered for its analgesic properties and is often used to treat chronic pain like migraines, arthritis, and neuropathic pain.

● Nausea & vomiting: When it comes to the THC category under Cannabis, they can help to reduce nausea and vomiting, which is primarily associated with chemotherapy, HIV/Aids related treatment, and other kinds of medical conditions.

● Appetite enhancer: Cannabis can stimulate one's appetite, making it very beneficial for individuals who experience appetite loss due to medical ailments like HIV/AIDS or cancer or as a side effect of certain medications.

● Insomnia Management: Some of the strains of Cannabis, particularly indica varieties, carry soothing properties that can help in promoting sleep and alleviating insomnia.

● Anxiety or Mood disorder: High doses of THC can induce anxiety in some individuals, but at the same time, CBD has been shown to have anxiolytic properties, which potentially help to reduce the symptoms of anxiety and mood-related disorders.

● Epilepsy: CBD has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of certain kinds of epilepsy, like Dravet syndrome and Lennox Gastaut syndrome, as it carries anticonvulsant properties.

● Glaucoma: Cannabis tends to lower intraocular pressure, which is helpful in the treatment of glaucoma. This is only a short-term temporary remedy and may not be suitable for the long term.

To be noted: It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before resorting to the use of Cannabis for medicinal purposes, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking any other kinds of medications, as Cannabis can interact with other certain drugs and can have adverse effects over some individuals.

Side Effects of Cannabis '

As we know, although Cannabis can have potential therapeutic effects, it is also associated with various kinds of side effects, especially if used excessively or in certain populations. The common side effects of Cannabis are as follows:

● Negative impact on mental health: Though Cannabis can have therapeutic effects for some mental ailments like anxiety or depression and PTSD, it may cause execrable symptoms in others, especially in those individuals with underlying psychiatric disorders or a disposition to psychosis.

● Impaired cognitive function: Cannabis tends to impair your memory, attention, and concentration, particularly if a high dosage or long-term use is done. This tends to have an adverse effect on learning, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.

● Impaired motor coordination: Cannabis can affect your neuromotor skills and coordination, which leads to impaired balance, slower reacting time, and increased risk of accidents, particularly when you are driving or operating heavy machinery.

● Increased heart rate: Cannabis tends to cause increased heart rate, which might pose risks for individuals with pre-existing heart conditions or hypertension.

● Psychological effects: While most of the users experience feelings of relaxation and euphoria, Cannabis can induce anxiety, paranoia, or panic attacks, especially in individuals predisposed to these conditions or when consumed in high dosages.

● Respiratory issues: When it comes to smoking Cannabis, whether it is in joint form or through a pipe can irritate one's respiratory system and can lead to symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and bronchitis. The long-term smoking of Cannabis might also increase the risk of respiratory infections and lung damage.

● Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS): It is in the rarest of rare cases; chronic and heavy cannabis use might lead to CHS, a condition that is characterised by cyclic episodes of severe nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. The only known treatment for CHS is the cessation of cannabis use.

Is Cannabis Legal?

The legality of Cannabis is a question that does not have a yes or no answer and is very subjective. While some countries like the USA, Canada, Israel, Spain, Portugal, Netherlands, Germany, Australia, Argentina and Uruguay legalise the use of Cannabis for recreational and medicinal purposes, there are other countries like India, China, Russia, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Malaysia, and Indonesia which strictly prohibit its usage.

To be noted: The legal status of Cannabis definitely varies by jurisdiction. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the rules and regulations in your area.

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