Long considered a dangerous and addictive substance used only for illegal recreation, the medical community and many state legislators have begun to embrace the use of marijuana for the treatment of various illnesses and medical conditions. However, it is still surrounded by confusion and controversy. Before we explore the health benefits of medical marijuana, let’s first establish exactly what it is.
What is Medical Marijuana?
Medical marijuana uses the cannabis plant or the chemicals extracted from it for medical purposes. It’s technically the same as recreational marijuana but instead is being used in different forms and concentrations to treat diseases and medical conditions, and in some cases will not cause an altered mental state. The cannabis plant contains more than 500 cannabinoids which have different effects on the body when consumed in various ways such as smoking or edible forms.
The Health Benefits of Medical Marijuana
Due to ongoing research, the extent of medical marijuana’s benefits is constantly evolving. Currently, pain management and suppressing the side effects of chemotherapy are among its most common uses. However, an increasing number of studies indicate that medical marijuana is beneficial in treating a wide variety of diseases and disorders, ranging from multiple sclerosis to cancer. Doctors are also prescribing it to treat neurological and mental disorders such as certain types of epilepsy, Parkinson’s, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The two main chemicals used in medical marijuana are cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC produces the sensation of being “high” while CBD provides relief from pain without psychoactive side effects.
CBD
CBD is one of the most prevalent active ingredients in marijuana. It is extracted from the marijuana plant or its cousin, the hemp plant. By itself, CBD does not cause the user to become high. It has proven to be very effective for pain management of various conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, endometriosis, migraines, and other inflammatory conditions. Cancer patients receiving chemo often experience nausea or a loss of appetite. CBD has actually improved appetite in some patients, helping them to get the vital nutrition they need.
THC
Also one of the most prevalent active ingredients in marijuana, THC has many of the same medical benefits as CBD. It can also be used to treat anxiety, depression, and other neurological or mental disorders. However, unlike CBD, it can produce an altered state. When used together with CBD, THC becomes more effective while its psychoactive side effects are minimized
Obtaining a Medical Marijuana Prescription in New Jersey
While medical marijuana research is constantly evolving, much of the confusion surrounding the drug involves its legality. As of May 2021, it is legal in 36 states and Washington DC. In 2010, New Jersey was the 14th state to legalize medical marijuana. However, before you can receive a prescription for medical marijuana, you must first obtain medical marijuana certification. This certification is offered by licensed physicians and can only be issued for certain medical conditions. Certification can be done online through a registered physician’s office, website, or during a telemedicine visit.
Medical Marijuana Certification At Vive
Vive Aesthetics and Wellness recognizes the benefits medical marijuana can provide. This alternative form of treatment can offer relief to those who suffer from pain resulting from any eligible medical conditions. Patients who are unable to tolerate the traditional treatments for these eligible conditions may also benefit from the use of medical marijuana. We are proud to add medical marijuana certification to our list of services.
Unlike some of our aesthetic and wellness services, medical marijuana certification can only be issued by a registered physician. Appointments for certification must be made with Dr.Pinto. These can be done in the office or over the phone. Contact us today to find out if you qualify for medical marijuana certification.
