Medicinal marijuana has gained popularity as one of the best treatment options for different conditions. More than half of states in the USA have allowed the use of marijuana for medical purposes. However, many people still question whether marijuana can be medicinal. There are a lot of misconceptions about marijuana, bringing confusion, with many people claiming that it’s just a backdoor move to legalize a dangerous drug. While there is subjective information about medicinal marijuana that needs further studies and research, many myths and misconceptions are totally wrong. The following are seven misconceptions people have about using medical marijuana.
1. You Get Addicted to Medical Marijuana
Marijuana is addictive, and it’s a big issue for those who use it for recreational purposes. However, when using marijuana for medical purposes, you may not be addicted. A highly addictive marijuana has a high concentration of tetrahydrocannabinol(THC), which makes it more risky as the level rises. However, medical marijuana strains don’t have a high level of this component. There are other medical marijuana with zero THC levels. It’s nearly impossible for a patient to get addicted to medical marijuana, especially if it is administered or prescribed by an expert. However, remember to use it properly, just like any other medication. Avoid abuse that can lead to stimulated addiction in the long run.
2. You Can Get “High” From Medical Marijuana
As mentioned above,THC is responsible for psychological stimulation that makes people “high” or addicted in the long run. However, most strains of medical marijuana don’t have enough percentage of this component to give you the “high” feeling. Remember, not all medical marijuana has THC. For instance, the canabidiol (CBD) strain will never stimulate anybody to “highness” because it doesn’t have any THC at all. Ensure to take your medication as prescribed and within the dosage. That way, you won’t have to worry about getting “high.”
3. You Can Only Smoke Medical Marijuana
This is one of the most common misconceptions from people who believe that you can only administer marijuana through smoking. Talk about people getting “high” from the recreational “weed” and trying to co-relate the two. There are other ways of consuming medicinal marijuana other than smoking. For instance, we have oils, edibles, pills, capsules, and even tropical products like creams, lotions, and balms. However, your doctor should strictly prescribe the method of consumption. Smoking may create an immediate effect while eating, resulting in a delayed response.
4. You Get Tired After Taking Medical Marijuana
Most medical marijuana strains are generally friendly to the body. A strain like indica contains more CBD, which may cause a bit of fatigue. However, such strains are recommended at night to monitor and handle side effects. Other strains, such as sativa, contain a higher concentration of THC than CBD, hence can boost your energy levels. However, sativa levels should be strictly on a prescription from an expert to avoid overdose or addiction in the long run.
5. Anyone Can Take Medical Marijuana
Just like any other medication, you can’t take medical marijuana without a prescription from an expert or a doctor. Taking any strain of marijuana without a proper prescription is as good as misuse of drugs. It can lead to serious side effects in the long run. Also, you’ll have to ensure that your state supports the use and, if applicable, register with any marijuana program in the state.
6. Use Of Medical Marijuana Causes Psychosis
This is another common misconception. Marijuana can only exacerbate any existing psychotic disorders, but it doesn’t cause any psychosis disease. If you have any additional psychosis risk, such as a family history of such conditions, consider opening up to your doctor before you get any dosage of medical marijuana. Misuse of cannabis or even addiction can induce any existing or temporary psychotic disorders. Still, it can’t be the cause of that disorder.
7. Marijuana Has No Medicinal Benefits
Medical marijuana has so many medical benefits. Research and evidence have proven that the use of marijuana as a medicine varies depending on the disease and individual. That’s why it’s crucial to consult a licensed doctor before taking any strain of marijuana. Marijuana contains more than 100 different chemicals, with cannabidiol and tetrahydrocannabinol being the most common components. The most common benefits of CBD include relief of anxiety, insomnia, and pain.
Remember, medical marijuana has several benefits. However, it’s crucial to understand the positive effects and possible side effects. Having the correct information will help you clear misconceptions that you may have about marijuana and its medicinal use. Consider consulting a licensed doctor before starting any treatment using medical marijuana.
