Have you ever wondered what everyone is fussing about regarding cannabis? There’s a reason this plant has been sparking curiosity and controversy for centuries. And, no, we’re not just talking about getting high.
Cannabinoids hold potential as a treatment for an array of conditions. This post will explore the basics of medical cannabinoids and their potential benefits. So, hang on to your seats—it’s going to be a wild ride.
What Are Cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are chemical compounds present in the cannabis plant. There are over 100 different cannabinoids, but the two most well-known are THC and CBD. THC gives you the so-called “high” feeling, while CBD is the cannabinoid with medical benefits and little to no psychoactive effects.
Cannabinoids take effect by binding to receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system. This system is responsible for maintaining homeostasis, or balance, in the body. When cannabinoids bind to the endocannabinoid systems receptors, they can help to regulate various physiological and cognitive processes.
The Difference Between CBD And THC
While THC and CBD are both cannabinoids, they have very different effects on the body. This difference is that THC binds directly to receptors in the brain, while CBD does not.
When you consume THC, it will directly impact your brain function. On the other hand, CBD only indirectly affects the receptors in the brain, which is why it doesn’t have the same effects that THC does.
The Benefits Of Cannabinoid Medicine
Cannabinoid medicine can offer a wide variety of benefits. CBD, for example, is effective in treating conditions like anxiety, depression, and chronic pain. On the other hand, THC effectively treats conditions like nausea, appetite loss, and insomnia.
Cannabis research is still in its beginning stages, so there is a lot we don’t yet know about the medical benefits of cannabinoids. However, the existing research is up-and-coming, and there is a lot of potentials for users to use cannabinoids to treat a wide variety of medical conditions.
How To Take Cannabinoid Medicine
You can consume cannabinoid medicine in various ways. The most common way to consume cannabinoids is by smoking or vaporizing dried cannabis flowers. However, this is not the only way to consume cannabinoids.
You can also consume cannabinoids in edibles, oils, and tinctures. Edibles are cannabis-infused foods, while oils and tinctures are cannabis-infused liquids. Both edibles and oils/tinctures can be consumed orally or added to food/drinks.
Medical cannabinoids can also be applied topically in creams, lotions, and ointments. Topical application is a good option for those who want to target a specific body area.
There is no “right” way to take cannabinoid medicine. The best way to consume cannabinoids will vary depending on your individual needs and preferences.
Side Effects Of Cannabinoid Medicine
The most common side effects of cannabinoid medicine are dry mouth, red eyes, and fatigue. These side effects are typically mild and temporary. However, certain people may experience more severe side effects, such as paranoia or anxiety.
It’s essential to start with a low dose and increase gradually to avoid experiencing any negative side effects. If you do experience any adverse side effects, stop taking the medication, and they should go away within a few days.
It’s also vital to note that, while rare, it is possible to overdose on cannabinoids. A cannabinoid overdose will not kill you but can cause unpleasant side effects like vomiting and dizziness. If you think you may have overused cannabinoids, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Research On Medical Cannabinoids
Since cannabis research is still in its early stages, we don’t yet know a lot about medical cannabinoids. However, the current study is quite encouraging, and the use of cannabinoids to treat various illnesses has a lot of potentials.
If you’re interested in trying medical cannabinoids, talk to your doctor about whether it may be right for you. You can also check out clinical trials currently underway to learn more about how users can use cannabinoids to treat medical conditions.
No Harm In Trying
The endocannabinoid system is a vital part of our biology, and cannabinoids are proving to be an essential part of modern medicine. THC and CBD affect the body differently, but both offer significant benefits.
If you’re interested in trying cannabinoid medicine, talk to your doctor about how to get started. We also offer online courses that can teach you more about cannabis and its many uses. Finally, feel free to find more interesting information about cannabis on the rest of our blog.