The Basics
Medical marijuana has been a hot topic in the UK for a while now, but what exactly is it? Medical marijuana, also known as medical cannabis, is a term used to describe the use of the marijuana plant, or its extracts, to treat various medical conditions. The plant contains chemicals called cannabinoids, which interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to produce various effects.
The Legal Situation
The legal situation surrounding medical marijuana in the UK is complex. Currently, cannabis is classified as a Class B drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, meaning it is illegal to possess, produce, or supply. However, in 2018 the government announced that specialist doctors in the UK could prescribe cannabis-based products for medicinal use.
This change in the law was hailed as a victory by campaigners, who had been calling for the legalisation of medical marijuana for years. However, the reality is that access to medical cannabis remains incredibly limited in the UK, and many patients who could benefit from it are still unable to access it.
What Conditions Can Medical Marijuana Treat?
Medical marijuana has been shown to be effective in treating a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. However, it is important to note that not all types of medical cannabis are equally effective for all conditions, and more research is needed to fully understand how different strains of the plant can be used to treat different medical conditions.
How Does Medical Marijuana Work?
As mentioned earlier, medical marijuana works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This system is responsible for regulating a wide range of physiological processes, including pain, mood, appetite, and sleep. The cannabinoids found in medical marijuana can mimic the effects of the body’s own endocannabinoids, helping to alleviate symptoms of various medical conditions.
Different Types of Medical Cannabis
There are many different strains of medical cannabis, each with its unique blend of cannabinoids and other active compounds. Some of the most common strains include:
Sativa
Sativa strains of medical cannabis are typically higher in THC, the psychoactive compound that produces the “high” associated with cannabis use. Sativa strains are often used to treat conditions such as depression and anxiety, as they can produce a more uplifting and energising effect.
Indica
Indica strains of medical cannabis are typically higher in CBD, a non-psychoactive compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety properties. Indica strains are often used to treat conditions such as chronic pain and insomnia, as they can produce a more relaxing and sedative effect.>
Hybrid
Hybrid strains of medical cannabis are a combination of sativa and indica strains, and can be tailored to produce specific effects depending on the patient’s needs. Different hybrids will have different ratios of THC to CBD, allowing doctors to prescribe a strain that is tailored to a patient’s specific medical condition.
Conclusion
In conclusion, medical marijuana has the potential to be a powerful tool in the treatment of a wide range of medical conditions. However, the legal situation surrounding medical cannabis in the UK remains complex, and more research is needed to fully understand how different strains of the plant can be used to treat different medical conditions. Despite these challenges, many patients continue to benefit from medical marijuana, and the hope is that access to this potentially life-changing treatment will become more widespread in the years to come.
