Medicinal Cannabis Information
Q1: What is the history of Marijuana?
A: Marijuana has been used for medicinal and recreational purposes for thousands of years. The earliest known use of marijuana dates to the 3rd millennium BC in ancient China. It was used for a variety of medical purposes, including pain relief, to treat digestive issues, and to induce sleep. In the Middle East, marijuana was used as an anaesthetic during surgery. In the 16th century, it was introduced to the Americas by Spanish explorers and was used for medicinal purposes by Native Americans.
Q2: Why is it called Marijuana?
A: The term "marijuana" is believed to have originated in Mexico in the early 1900s. It is derived from the Spanish word marihuana, which is a combination of the words María (Mary) and Huana (grass)., likewise referring to Female, and Male plant. Marijuana is a term used to refer to the dried flowers, leaves, stems, and seeds of the Cannabis sativa plant. The female plant produces the flowers that contain the highest concentrations of the psychoactive compound THC.
It is believed that female plant can produce more THC/resin if there is no male plant near it!
Dry, sunny weather can improve the THC concentration.
Q3: How many types of Marijuana plant are available?
A: There are 3 main types of marijuana plants:
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Cannabis sativa
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Cannabis indica (more abundant in India)
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Cannabis ruderalis
Each type has its own unique characteristics and effects. Cannabis sativa is known for its energizing and uplifting effects, while Cannabis indica is known for its sedative and relaxing effects. Cannabis ruderalis is a less common type of marijuana plant that is known for its hardiness and fast flowering time.
Q4: What are THC and CBD?
A: THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) are two of the most abundant compounds found in the cannabis plant.
THC is the psychoactive compound that could produce the "high" associated with marijuana use, while CBD is a non-psychoactive compound that has been found to have a variety of therapeutic benefits.
Q5: Where are the receptors of Marijuana in human body?
A: There are 2 main types of cannabinoid receptors: CB1 and CB2.
CB1 receptors are primarily found in the brain and central nervous system.
CB2 receptors are found in the immune system and peripheral organs.
Both types of receptors interact with the compounds found in cannabis, such as THC and CBD, to produce a variety of effects.
Brain:
Basal Ganglia: that’s why it may slow down movement.
Cerebellum: can affect the balance.
Cortex: can affect executive function like thinking, planning.
Hypothalamus: can increase appetite.
Hippocampus: can affect learning and STM.
Medulla: prevents Nausea by blocking CTZ
Spinal cord
Receptors doesn’t exist in Respiratory centre, therefore, overdose of Cannabis doesn’t cause respiratory arrest unlike Opium overdose.
Q6: Why do we have receptors in the body for cannabis?
A: The body has cannabinoid receptors because it produces its own cannabinoids, known as endocannabinoids. These receptors help regulate various functions in the body, such as appetite, pain, mood, and memory. When cannabis is consumed, the cannabinoids in the plant interact with these receptors, producing various effects.
Q7: What are the names of endocannabinoids?
A: The two main endocannabinoids are Anandamide and 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG).
Q8: How can we augment the level of endocannabinoids?
A: Endocannabinoid levels can be augmented through lifestyle changes such as exercise, diet, and stress management. Additionally, certain supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, terpenes, and phytocannabinoids can also help to increase endocannabinoid levels.
Q9: What is Phytocannabinoid?
A: Phytocannabinoids are compounds found in cannabis plants that interact with the endocannabinoid system. Examples of phytocannabinoids include THC, CBD, CBG, and CBN.
Q10: What is CBG and CBN?
A: CBG (cannabigerol) and CBN (cannabinol) are also found in cannabis plants. CBG is known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, while CBN is known for its sedative effects.
Q11: What is the relationship of THC and CBD and CB1 and CB2 receptors?
A: THC and CBD interact with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the body to produce a variety of effects. THC binds to both CB1 and CB2 with higher affinity than CBD receptors.
Q12: What are the benefits of THC?
A: The primary benefit of THC is its ability to produce psychoactive effects, such as relaxation, euphoria, and increased appetite. THC has also been found to have potential therapeutic benefits, such as reducing nausea and vomiting, reducing inflammation, and providing relief from pain.
Q13: What are the benefit s of CBD?
A: The primary benefit of CBD is its ability to produce therapeutic effects, such as reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and reducing anxiety. CBD has also been found to have potential anti-cancer properties, as well as the ability to reduce seizures in people with epilepsy.
Q14: Between THC and CBD which one is stronger for neuropathic pain?
A: Studies have shown that both THC and CBD can be effective in treating neuropathic pain. However, THC is generally considered to be more effective than CBD for this purpose.
Q15: What are the common side effects of THC?
A: Common side effects of THC include dry mouth, red eyes, increased heart rate, impaired coordination, and anxiety. In some cases, THC can also cause paranoia and hallucinations.
Q16: What are the common side effects of CBD?
A: Common side effects of CBD include fatigue, nausea, and changes in appetite. In some cases, CBD can also cause dry mouth, diarrhea, and changes in mood.
Q17: What is the benefit of taking a balanced medicinal cannabis oil?
A: Taking a balanced medicinal cannabis oil can provide a variety of benefits, including relief from pain, inflammation, anxiety, and nausea. Additionally, taking a balanced medicinal cannabis oil can help to reduce the risk of experiencing adverse side effects from either THC or CBD.
Q18: How long can regular usage of THC can be detected on breath test?
A: Regular usage of THC can be detected on a breath drug test for up to 72 hours after last use.