Medical Marijuana: A Basic Guide

It is important to understand how medical marijuana is used, which strains will work best for you, the role of key compounds such as THC and CBD, and the possible side effects. You can take cannabis in several forms, including smoking, vapes, edibles, oils, tinctures, capsules, or topicals. Each method has different onset times and durations of effect.

In addition to choosing a strain, the balance of THC, which is psychoactive, and CBD, which is non-intoxicating, largely determines how a strain will affect the body and mind. Like any treatment, medical marijuana can also produce side effects, which vary depending on the strain, dosage, and individual response.

The three main types of medical marijuana strains are Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid. Sativa strains are generally associated with energizing, uplifting effects, while Indica strains are known for their calming, relaxing properties. Hybrids are a combination of both, designed to offer a balance of these effects, with many options available to suit specific medical needs. 

• Sativa

  • Effects: Sativa strains are often described as energizing and invigorating. They can promote creativity and focus, making them suitable for daytime use. 

  • Use: Sativa-dominant strains may be helpful for conditions such as depression and fatigue. 

  • Side Effects: Because of its stimulating effects, Sativa strains can sometimes cause anxiety, restlessness, or rapid heart rate in sensitive individuals. Some people may also experience difficulty sleeping if used too late in the day.

• Indica

  • Effects: Indica strains are known for their relaxing and sedating effects, providing a physical sensation throughout the body. 

  • Use: They are often suggested for relieving muscle tension, easing nausea, and promoting overall relaxation. 

  • Side Effects: Indica strains, with their sedating qualities, can cause drowsiness, reduced alertness, or grogginess the following day if taken in high amounts. It may also increase appetite more strongly, which you may not want.

• Hybrid

  • Effects: A hybrid is a crossbreed of Indica and Sativa strains, offering a combination of effects. Hybrids can be Indica-dominant, Sativa-dominant, or a balance of Indica and Sativa. 

  • Use: Hybrid strains are bred to provide a blend of characteristics from both parent strains, allowing for more tailored therapeutic benefits. 

  • Side Effects: You may notice a mix of both: for example, mild drowsiness alongside occasional anxiety, depending on the specific strain and dosage.

THC and CBD

Cannabis contains many active compounds, but two of the most studied are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).

• THC is the compound responsible for the “high” or psychoactive effects of cannabis. It can provide pain relief, reduce nausea, and stimulate appetite, but it can also cause side effects such as anxiety or impaired coordination at higher doses.

• CBD does not produce a “high.” It is known for calming effects and is often used for conditions such as anxiety, seizures, and inflammation. CBD may also help balance out some of the unwanted effects of THC, like paranoia.

The ratio of THC to CBD in a strain largely determines how it will affect you.

Additional Considerations

• Cannabinoids and Terpenes: The effects of each strain are influenced by their specific levels of cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) and terpenes. 

• General Side Effects (all strains):

  • Dry mouth

  • Dizziness

  • Red eyes

  • Impaired short-term memory or coordination

  • Increased appetite

• Consult a Doctor: Before starting any medical marijuana treatment, it is important to consult with a doctor to determine the most appropriate strain and dosage for your specific condition. 

Methods of Use

• Smoking and Vaporizing: Smoking dried cannabis flower is one of the most traditional methods, but vaporizing is often preferred for medical use because it delivers cannabinoids quickly without as many of the harmful byproducts of smoke.

  
  

• Edibles: Edible products, such as gummies, baked goods, or chocolates, provide longer-lasting effects compared to inhalation. However, they take longer to work, often 30 minutes to 2 hours. Dosing carefully is important to avoid taking too much.

  
  

• Oils and Tinctures: Cannabis oils or tinctures are taken under the tongue or mixed with food. This method allows for more precise dosing and can be an effective option for people who prefer not to inhale cannabis.

  
  

• Capsules and Pills: These provide a consistent and controlled dose, making them easier for some to manage, especially if you use cannabis as part of a daily treatment plan.

  
  

• Topicals: Creams, balms, and lotions infused with cannabis are applied directly to the skin. They are often used for localized pain, inflammation, or skin conditions without producing a psychoactive effect.

Distribution and Risks

Medical strains are usually formulated differently than most recreational strains. The key differences are oversight, safety, accessibility, and purpose. Medical cannabis is generally safer and more tailored to treatment, while recreational is for personal use, and illegal cannabis is unpredictable.

• Medical Dispensaries: Medical Marijuana is specifically if you have qualifying conditions, prescribed or recommended by a doctor. It requires a medical marijuana card or certification. Products usually go through stricter testing for purity, potency, and contaminants (like pesticides, mold, or heavy metals). They are tailored to medical needs, with a range of THC-to-CBD ratios, and sometimes higher-CBD options than recreational markets carry.

  
  

• Recreational Dispensaries (or Retail Shops): Recreational (legal) marijuana is for anyone of legal age (21+ in most U.S. states) can buy and use it, not limited to medical conditions. No doctor’s note needed, just valid ID. Legality varies by state and country. Similar testing to medical products in most legal markets, but the selection is often more geared toward higher-THC strains for psychoactive effects. Recreational products are often taxed more heavily than medical.

  
  

• Illegal Marijuana (Black Market) is sold outside of regulated systems. With no oversight, the risks are higher — the product could be contaminated, mislabeled, or much stronger/weaker than claimed. No age checks or medical oversight. Sometimes cheaper up front, but comes with safety and legal risks.

Closing

Medical marijuana offers a wide range of potential benefits, but the effects vary depending on the strain, method of use, and the balance of THC and CBD. While Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid strains each have distinct properties, it is important to remember that no single approach works for everyone. Understanding side effects, starting with careful dosing, and consulting with a medical professional can help ensure safe and effective treatment. With the right guidance, medical marijuana can be an important option for managing health conditions and improving quality of life.

1 Thessalonians 5:21-22

“But test them all; hold on to what is good, reject every kind of evil.”