What Is Cannabis
Understanding the Basics of Medical Cannabis
Cannabis is a natural plant that contains more than 100 active compounds known as cannabinoids.
The two most studied are THC, which can be impairing, and CBD, which is non-intoxicating.
These compounds interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system to influence health, mood, appetite, pain, sleep, and inflammation.
Each person’s response is unique — depending on body chemistry, dosage, and delivery method.
🌿 The Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
Your body naturally produces its own cannabinoids, called endocannabinoids.
Together with receptors found throughout the brain, nervous system, and immune cells, they form the endocannabinoid system — your body’s built-in balance system.
The ECS helps regulate:
Mood and stress
Pain and inflammation
Sleep and appetite
Immune response
Plant cannabinoids from cannabis can mimic or support these same pathways, helping restore balance when the body is out of sync.
🌺 What Medical Research Shows
Chronic Pain
Medical cannabis can provide small but meaningful relief for certain patients, especially those with neuropathic or chronic pain.
Multiple Sclerosis
Some cannabinoid-based medicines may reduce muscle spasms and stiffness.
Epilepsy
A purified form of CBD (Epidiolex) is FDA-approved for rare seizure disorders.
Nausea & Appetite
Cannabis may reduce nausea and stimulate appetite, particularly for patients undergoing chemotherapy or managing chronic illness.
Sleep
Low doses of certain cannabis products may improve sleep quality and relaxation.
Research is ongoing, and results vary depending on strain, dosage, and method of use.
⚖️ Risks and Cautions
Mental Health
Frequent or high-THC use can affect memory, attention, and mood. Individuals with anxiety, depression, or a family history of psychosis should use caution.
Heart Health
Cannabis can temporarily raise heart rate and blood pressure.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Cannabis use is not recommended during pregnancy or nursing due to potential effects on infant development.
Driving & Work Safety
Cannabis impairs coordination and reaction time. Never drive or operate machinery while under the influence.
💊 Routes, Onset, and Duration
Inhalation (smoking or vaping)
Onset: Within minutes
Duration: 2–4 hours
Edibles
Onset: 1–2 hours
Duration: 6–12 hours
Tip: Start with a very low dose and wait before taking more.
Tinctures
Onset: 30–60 minutes
Duration: 4–6 hours
Topicals
Applied to the skin for localized relief
Typically non-impairing
🌈 Sensible Dosing
Start low and go slow.
Begin with the smallest effective dose and increase gradually as needed.
Track your dose, timing, and effects in a notebook or journal.
Choose non-inhaled options when possible to reduce lung irritation.
⚕️ Drug Interactions
Cannabinoids can affect how your liver processes certain prescription drugs.
Interactions have been reported with:
Blood thinners
Seizure medications
Some antidepressants
Always review your medications with your healthcare provider before using cannabis.
🧪 FDA Status and Product Quality
Only a few cannabis-related medications are approved by the FDA:
Epidiolex (CBD): For rare seizure disorders
Dronabinol and Nabilone (synthetic THC): For nausea and appetite loss
Most dispensary products are not FDA-approved and may vary in potency or purity.
Always purchase from licensed dispensaries and choose lab-tested products.
🧸 Youth and Safe Storage
Keep all cannabis products locked and away from children and pets.
Edibles can look like regular snacks or candy and may cause serious illness if accidentally eaten.
Because edibles have a delayed onset and long duration, accidental overuse is common — always start small and wait.
🌺 Research Is Evolving
Studies continue to explore how cannabinoids affect pain, anxiety, sleep, inflammation, and other health conditions.
As new evidence emerges, medical guidance will continue to evolve.
Always work with a qualified healthcare provider when using cannabis as part of your wellness plan.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is cannabis considered medicine?
Some cannabis-based products are FDA-approved. Dispensary products are not. Discuss with your clinician if medical cannabis is appropriate for your condition.
2. Will it help with chronic pain?
Many patients experience moderate improvement in pain and sleep, but results vary. It is not a cure and may not work for everyone.
3. What is the safest way to start?
Begin with non-inhaled products like tinctures or edibles. Start with a low dose and wait several hours before taking more.
4. Can I drive after using cannabis?
No. Wait until you are completely unimpaired before driving or operating machinery.
5. Can I use cannabis with my prescription medications?
Possibly, but caution is needed. Some cannabinoids alter how your liver metabolizes medications. Always review your medications with your provider.
6. Is cannabis safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
No. Use is strongly discouraged during pregnancy and nursing due to possible harm to the baby.
7. What are the risks of high-THC products?
High-THC products increase the risk of anxiety, paranoia, dependence, and cognitive issues, especially in frequent users.
8. What’s the difference between THC and CBD?
THC causes the psychoactive “high.” CBD is non-intoxicating and known for reducing inflammation, anxiety, and seizures.
9. How should I store my products?
Store tightly sealed in a cool, dry place, away from children and pets. Clearly label edibles and never mix them with regular food.
10. Where does this information come from?
This summary draws from the National Academies of Sciences, the CDC, the FDA, and other respected medical sources.