{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/education/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_2242-markdown","title":"How to Tell Your Parents You Use Marijuana","slug":"how-to-tell-your-parents-you-use-marijuana","content":"### \"Mom, Dad, I'm Not a Stoner...Really.\"\r\n\r\nHave you thought about discussing your cannabis use with your parents? Cannabis consumption can be a contentious issue between generations due to the stigma attached to it. It can be hard to break parental perceptions regarding cannabis, because many of our parents grew up at the peak of [reefer madness and marijuana propaganda.](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/the-history-of-marijuana-propaganda). \r\n\r\nIf you remember anything about drug education surrounding marijuana back in your own school, you can  imagine the horror stories your parents were told about cannabis use (or abuse) when they were kids. But, here we sit in the age of legalization and despite what your parents may think today, perceptions of cannabis have changed greatly in recent years. Plus, the majority of Americans agree with legalization, so you have that going for you.\r\n\r\nMaybe now is the time to chat with Mom and Dad about your own marijuana consumption.\r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\n### Parents: My Brain is Not an Egg in a Frying Pan\r\n\r\nMany people lived a large part of their life during the peak of the War on Drugs. Drugs became the scapegoat of all the issues that the country was facing, especially during the 1980s when First Lady Nancy Reagan made it her mission to have every child say “Just Say No.” to drugs, which focused the lens on cannabis. The billions of dollars spent on the War on Drugs since that time resulted in a dismal failure, but the stigma against marijuana remains.\r\n\r\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58b49f05e99d85000ba3172d/embedded_images/58b49f08e99d85000ba3172e/Screen_Shot_2017-02-27_at_10.51.39_AM.png)\r\n The War on Drugs delivered images like this to your parents.\r\n\r\nFast forward to now, and it can be hard to convince your parents that a drug they were once told could turn you into a crazy, lazy, crime-creator could actually help ease their arthritis pain, quell anxiety or even make you a happier person. Yet, an open dialogue is the only way to break down the barrier between misrepresentation and the truth about cannabis. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [CANNABIS 101: THC VS CBD](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-thc-vs-cbd)\r\n\r\n### 1. Help Educate Your Parents\r\n\r\nAs a mid twenties millennial, the way I approached cannabis with my parents was at first extremely matter-of-fact. Though it may seem that an emotional appeal of  other peoples’ success with marijuana-as-medicine may be the best way to change perceptions, I found that a science-first approach works best. \r\n\r\nThere are a numerous well documented scientific studies on cannabis that show its efficacy on a variety of medical conditions and how cannabis itself interacts with the body. To understand how cannabis can be a viable medication, it's best to tell your parents how it does not always produce psychoactive side effects. Instead, I told my parents how cannabis is full of [cannabinoids](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabinoids-and-the-immune-system) other than THC, like [CBD, which provides amazing medicinal benefits](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cbd-cannabidiol-the-medicine-of-the-future), all without even getting me high.\r\n\r\nCannabis is also full of [terpenes](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/what-are-terpenes-and-what-is-their-effect) which are non psychoactive and extremely beneficial to our health. Terpenes create the aromas and flavors within different strains and also deliver medicinal benefits to consumers. A terpene such as limonene can act as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and has even been purported to contain anti-cancer properties. Terpenes are good for us!\r\n\r\nThere are a variety of resources you can look to for scientific, peer-reviewed journal articles on the benefits of cannabis.  Google Scholar can be one of your best friends by providing you access to many journal articles for free with a single click. \r\n\r\nThese studies, which come out of extremely reputable universities, can give your parents an insight into the success of cannabis in a purely scientific form. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/download-our-medical-marijuana-patient-study) also provides you with a searchable platform were you can look at a variety of articles on many different medical conditions. These articles are also full of links to peer reviewed studies that show all of the good that cannabis can do in a condensed platform. \r\n\r\nAfter you have educated your parents on the scientific studies behind cannabis, then personal appeals will become that much more impactful. Focusing on scientific studies first when introducing cannabis to my parents gave them the context to look at [peoples’ personal successes](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/marijuana-insomnia-migraines-liz-s-success-story) as a medical triumph. HelloMD has a full range of interviews, in written and video form, which show how people have greatly benefited from cannabis. These types of personal appeals put scientific information into an even more real and understandable form. \r\n\r\n### 2. Mom, Dad, It's Just a Plant\r\n\r\nCannabis has been demonized for generations now, but in the end, it is just a plant. Cannabis as a healing and spiritual herb has been closely tied with human history for thousands of years, being featured in ancient Chinese and Indian history. Cannabis is also the same plant as hemp, just with different amounts of various cannabinoids that draw the line between a medical product and a food stuff. \r\n\r\nI found that a great way to change my parents perception of cannabis was to have them look at hemp itself. Hemp can now be found in almost any grocery store with a health foods section. Hemp seeds are full of essential fatty acids and important minerals, as well lots of protein. Hemp oil features many of the same important dietary qualities of hemp seeds and is filled with good-for-you fats that keep you full and energized. It’s is a great addition to anyone's diet and it doesn't have any of the negatives that are associated with cannabis. Using hemp can be a great bridge between the many misconceptions of cannabis and can show that the basic parts of the plant can have health benefits, even without large amounts of cannabinoids. \r\n\r\n### 3. Tell Your Parents that Bongs are Retro\r\n\r\nCannabis quality has changed greatly, even just in the last ten years. Cannabis is no longer only rolled up in a joint and smoked and a bong, it almost seems retro. Cannabis comes in many different forms, strengths, and with a variety of different administration methods. I have found that cannabis stigma increases when the consumption method is smoking, especially if you talk to your parents about smoking a spliff or a bong. Try talking to your parents about the multitude of ways it can be consumed discreetly and effectively.\r\n\r\nTo many people, the idea of smoking flower evokes thoughts of a specific smell, and conjures the old stoner image. Let's be honest too, specifically, your parents are probably afraid you will be the stoner they hoped you would not be. Yet, the forms of cannabis today, are most likely completely unrecognizable to your parents and also outside of the realm of the taboo. From topical products, to edibles to tinctures, cannabis can be taken in a variety of ways that do not involve smoking at all, and they need to be made aware of this. \r\n\r\nMany cannabis products today, are specifically curated and bred to target a particular condition or symptom. CBD is all the rage today, and  is an anti inflammatory, an analgesic and an anti anxiety. CBD specific strains are known to help children who struggle with seizures live a more normal life and the intensely autistic calm violent tendencies. \r\n\r\n### You Can Change Perceptions\r\n\r\nThe bottom line is that marijuana is not a demon drug it has been made out to be and your influence and knowledge can help change the perceptions of those around you, even with your parents. With some science to back you up and some anecdotal evidence of medical success stories, even the most conservative of parents may have a change of heart (well maybe not the most conservative). \r\n\r\nStay positive, be who you are and feel empowered to educate your parents on the positive aspects of cannabis, of which there are many. Who knows, maybe one day you will even catch your Mom on the couch enjoying an edible to take the edge off after a stressful day at work. Anything is possible.\r\n\r\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.\r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/d9f3faa049c08d522e4728138776295c/14b42/387afc2c3dece0833f62e29b4372d45b.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d9f3faa049c08d522e4728138776295c/f836f/387afc2c3dece0833f62e29b4372d45b.jpg 200w,\n/static/d9f3faa049c08d522e4728138776295c/2244e/387afc2c3dece0833f62e29b4372d45b.jpg 400w,\n/static/d9f3faa049c08d522e4728138776295c/14b42/387afc2c3dece0833f62e29b4372d45b.jpg 800w,\n/static/d9f3faa049c08d522e4728138776295c/47498/387afc2c3dece0833f62e29b4372d45b.jpg 1200w,\n/static/d9f3faa049c08d522e4728138776295c/54ac5/387afc2c3dece0833f62e29b4372d45b.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/d9f3faa049c08d522e4728138776295c/58556/387afc2c3dece0833f62e29b4372d45b.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d9f3faa049c08d522e4728138776295c/61e93/387afc2c3dece0833f62e29b4372d45b.webp 200w,\n/static/d9f3faa049c08d522e4728138776295c/1f5c5/387afc2c3dece0833f62e29b4372d45b.webp 400w,\n/static/d9f3faa049c08d522e4728138776295c/58556/387afc2c3dece0833f62e29b4372d45b.webp 800w,\n/static/d9f3faa049c08d522e4728138776295c/99238/387afc2c3dece0833f62e29b4372d45b.webp 1200w,\n/static/d9f3faa049c08d522e4728138776295c/5e0b8/387afc2c3dece0833f62e29b4372d45b.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2385-markdown","title":"UC Davis to Teach Physiology of Cannabis Course","slug":"uc-davis-to-teach-physiology-of-cannabis-course","content":"### Cannabis Education at UC Davis\n\nUniversity of California at Davis is offering a new Physiology of Cannabis class that allows students to learn about cannabis, becoming one of the first universities in the state of California as well as the nation to offer formal education in this area. The new class offering is comes on the heels of the recent passage of Prop 64 which makes recreational marijuana legal in California. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nThe instructor of the course, Yu-Fung Lin is an associate professor of physiology and membrane biology at the UC Davis School of Medicine. Lin expressed the importance of the new course saying, “We feel it is important at this moment to educate students about the physiology and medical indications of cannabis and cannabinoids.” The class will be offered to undergraduate students across UC Davis, fulfilling a general education requirement for science and engineering. \n\nThe course will cover the biology of cannabis and cannabinoids, as well as how they effect different systems in the body. The course will also delve into the potential medical benefits of cannabis and the history of cannabis use as a medication. A more advanced version of the class is being formulated for medical students to be also offered next year. UC Davis is also hoping to expand public knowledge of cannabis through a similar course offered to the general public.\n\n### Other Types of Cannabis Education\n\nThe course is the first of its kind to be offered in the UC system, making it an important step in the expansion of education on the benefits of marijuana. As many people involved in or interested in the marijuana industry know, the current lack of reputable education on the subject of cannabis is major problem. Only a handful of universities in the country offer classes on marijuana. The University of Vermont medical school and the Massachusetts Medical Society both offer limited courses on marijuana, as well as three different law schools in the country, including Harvard. \n\nThe United States does have one cannabis education dedicated campus, which is Oaksterdam University located in Oakland, California. Founded in 2007, Oaksterdam University was founded by Richard Lee as a trade school for people in the cannabis industry. The school was modeled on the Cannabis College in Amsterdam, though it has a far extended curriculum from the horticulture focused school in Europe. Oaksterdam University offers courses in business, culinary arts, history, horticulture, law, and sciences, all based around marijuana. \n\nThere are also a few online training programs for doctors that allow them to get more information on cannabis, including how to properly prescribe it for different conditions. Certain states require doctors to complete various online training programs before being authorized to prescribe medical marijuana.\n\nThe Medical Cannabis Institute is an online resources that provides courses ranging from Clinical Applications of Cannabis for Cancer Patients to Core Knowledge of the Endocannabinoid System. There are also a variety of patient resources, like HelloMD, that provide patients with information to help them understand the way cannabis can be used to aid a variety of medical conditions.\n\n### Doctor Education is Missing\n\nDespite the expanding amount of cannabis-oriented resources for doctors, patients, and curious public alike, there is still a lack of formal educational resources available to the general public. Doctors are possibly the most effected by the lack of educational opportunities, as they do not receive any formal training on cannabis in medical school like other pharmaceuticals they prescribe. Perry Solomon, the Chief Medical Officer at HelloMD, said this of the lack of available education for doctors;\n\n>“One the biggest obstacles in patients obtaining medicinal cannabis in legal states is the inability to find physicians who are familiar with cannabis. There is only one medical school in the country that actually teaches a course on cannabis and only 13% of the others mention it in various details. This, of course, results in an uninformed graduating physician population. \n\n>When a patient then goes to a doctor and wants to discuss cannabis as an alternative to traditional medication, the physician is unable to do so. What I have seen happen occasionally as well is, due to their ignorance and pre-determined bias regarding cannabis, the physician “fires” the patient who has been using cannabis!\n\n>As more and more states legalize medicinal cannabis, I have seen more physicians attending educational events all across the country. It is vital for more physicians to become educated about cannabis since they will be seeing more of their patients using it in the future, including states where “adult use” is permitted. What we have seen most at HelloMD is patients who had used cannabis to help with chronic pain, the number one reason that patients use cannabis. An educated physician population can encourage this use and hopefully decrease the 33,091 people who overdosed from opioids in 2015.\"\n\nAs cannabis is becoming more recognized as a viable medication, hopefully the educational opportunities will continue to expand for doctors. It is important that doctors are educated on how to prescribe cannabis, so patients can use cannabis more effectively and safely. \n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.492537313432836,"src":"/static/6e716462c50a3c837f9fa69b6c392e67/ee604/05fa3bb660166ce41051671cabc34b40.png","srcSet":"/static/6e716462c50a3c837f9fa69b6c392e67/69585/05fa3bb660166ce41051671cabc34b40.png 200w,\n/static/6e716462c50a3c837f9fa69b6c392e67/497c6/05fa3bb660166ce41051671cabc34b40.png 400w,\n/static/6e716462c50a3c837f9fa69b6c392e67/ee604/05fa3bb660166ce41051671cabc34b40.png 800w,\n/static/6e716462c50a3c837f9fa69b6c392e67/f3583/05fa3bb660166ce41051671cabc34b40.png 1200w,\n/static/6e716462c50a3c837f9fa69b6c392e67/90ce3/05fa3bb660166ce41051671cabc34b40.png 1428w","srcWebp":"/static/6e716462c50a3c837f9fa69b6c392e67/58556/05fa3bb660166ce41051671cabc34b40.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/6e716462c50a3c837f9fa69b6c392e67/61e93/05fa3bb660166ce41051671cabc34b40.webp 200w,\n/static/6e716462c50a3c837f9fa69b6c392e67/1f5c5/05fa3bb660166ce41051671cabc34b40.webp 400w,\n/static/6e716462c50a3c837f9fa69b6c392e67/58556/05fa3bb660166ce41051671cabc34b40.webp 800w,\n/static/6e716462c50a3c837f9fa69b6c392e67/99238/05fa3bb660166ce41051671cabc34b40.webp 1200w,\n/static/6e716462c50a3c837f9fa69b6c392e67/cad8b/05fa3bb660166ce41051671cabc34b40.webp 1428w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2090-markdown","title":"How to Talk to Your Teen About Cannabis","slug":"how-to-talk-to-your-teen-about-cannabis","content":"Michele Levine is a longtime educator who has worked in schools and education non profits. She has been on the ground in schools and camp settings working with youth, teens, college students and young adults from all backgrounds while being a high school teacher in the South Bronx, a private school administrator, to working with teens in Oakland public schools.\r\n\r\nMichele is focused on the education, policy, and the information being discussed about legalization, the medicinal benefits of cannabis, and how cannabis education and information is being discussed and delivered to teens, parents, teachers, and communities. HelloMD is very excited to have Michele as a featured guest blogger. In her first article Michele gives her thoughts on how to talk to teens about cannabis.\r\n\r\n**From Illegal to Acceptance…How Do We Talk About it with Young People?**\r\n\r\nWe’re witnessing a social shift in acceptance for cannabis use from being something illegal to something with medicinal benefits and accepted for adult-recreational use in some states. This creates an opportunity for parents and adults to engage young people on a topic that is both current and relevant for everyone involved. This is a teachable moment, a chance to have real-time, meaningful conversations about social change, cannabis use and wellness, rules and regulations, and consequences for illegal or misuse of a regulated substance.\r\n\r\nDuring my time working with teens and young adults, I was sometimes the only adult in their life who took the time to listen to them. Many of them discussed topics with me that they would not feel comfortable discussing with their parents such as relationship issues, personal/self esteem concerns, and the challenges of being a young person in a modern, social-media infested world. As you can imagine, I’ve been told many things and asked a variety of questions. \r\n\r\nAs any adult knows when working with impressionable young people, it’s important to stay open, non judgmental, and curious about what is being discussed. Despite your concern or disapproval, one thing you can’t do is lecture or give reasons that are not meaningful or relevant to their lives.\r\n\r\n**This is a Teachable Moment….**\r\n\r\nHere are some good starting questions, for yourself first, and then for engagement with any young person in your life.\r\n\r\n- What does cannabis legalization mean?\r\n- What do we know about Cannabis now, that has created this shift in thinking?\r\n- Why now?\r\n- How will these changes impact society?\r\n- What are the consequences of illegal use?\r\n- How can something legal be abused?\r\n- What does marijuana abuse look like?\r\n\r\n\r\n**The Prevalence of Cannabis- It’s Already Here**\r\n\r\nGiven that marijuana was so prevalent, even before the current status of legalization/future legalization, many young people view legalization as nothing more than a rubber stamp and do not understand the significance of illegal use. While research shows that using marijuana during adolescence could have a long-term impact on a teen’s memory, problem-solving skills and critical thinking, it’s becoming clear that information has little to no effect on teen use. \r\n\r\nIn [Talking to Kids About Legal Marijuana](http://www.cnn.com/2015/05/06/living/feat-marijuana-talking-to-kids-post-legalization/), Dr. Larry Wolk, executive director for Colorado's Department of Public Health and Environment, says “What doesn’t work is hammering children over the head with how, medically speaking, marijuana is bad for the developing brain. The research shows that that’s like a turn off.”\r\n\r\n**Focus On Immediate Consequences**\r\n\r\nInstead of focusing on the long term health risks, getting caught using cannabis under the age of 21 can have serious and immediate consequences:\r\n\r\n- School Consequences: Student could be suspended or expelled. Student could be suspended from a sports team. This could affect scholarship and college opportunities. School may require drug counseling.\r\n- Legal Consequences: Breaking state/federal laws. Youth could receive a possession charge and/or fines, public service, drug counseling, loss of driver's license, and a misdemeanor or felony charge on personal records. This could affect future job opportunities, apartment rentals, and/or result in loss of college financial aid.\r\n\r\n**With Legalization, Comes Adult Responsibility**\r\n\r\nBe prepared to have open and honest conversations about cannabis use, legalization, and consequences of misuse. Understand your state and local Cannabis policies. Learn from other cities and schools on best practices around education and understanding of Cannabis Legalization.  Here are some excellent resources:\r\n\r\n- The Drug Policy Alliance supports reality-based youth drug education that prioritizes the safety, health and well-being of young people. Safety First: A Reality-Based Approach to Teens and Drugs\r\n- Preventing Youth Marijuana Use in Colorado: Information for Schools\r\n- Know your state and local policies and initiatives. Marijuana Policy Project\r\n\r\n**It Takes a Village; In Partnership**\r\n\r\nOur schools, local government agencies, and cannabis-related companies share a responsibility in educating our youth, teens, and communities on cannabis legalization, responsible adult use, and consequences of teen use and abuse. Since local city governments dictate local cannabis laws and regulations and school districts operate as independent entities through state and federal funding/requirements, upcoming Cannabis legalization is an opportunity for our communities to take collective action and responsibility on educating and protecting our youth. Local Cannabis companies can support the initiative through marketing and public outreach.\r\n\r\nAs a community, let’s seize this opportunity of Cannabis legalization to grow and develop community collaborations, create space for education and professional opportunities, and take collective action and responsibility for the safety of our youth, schools, and neighborhoods. \r\n\r\nIf you would like to connect with Michele, connect with her on her [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelelevine).\r\n\r\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.\r\n\r\n\r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/410b455d72d1353fc1e2896e38c8de85/ee604/db01d2e1954dc9243ea8baec84ddec97.png","srcSet":"/static/410b455d72d1353fc1e2896e38c8de85/69585/db01d2e1954dc9243ea8baec84ddec97.png 200w,\n/static/410b455d72d1353fc1e2896e38c8de85/497c6/db01d2e1954dc9243ea8baec84ddec97.png 400w,\n/static/410b455d72d1353fc1e2896e38c8de85/ee604/db01d2e1954dc9243ea8baec84ddec97.png 800w,\n/static/410b455d72d1353fc1e2896e38c8de85/f3583/db01d2e1954dc9243ea8baec84ddec97.png 1200w,\n/static/410b455d72d1353fc1e2896e38c8de85/f90fa/db01d2e1954dc9243ea8baec84ddec97.png 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/410b455d72d1353fc1e2896e38c8de85/58556/db01d2e1954dc9243ea8baec84ddec97.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/410b455d72d1353fc1e2896e38c8de85/61e93/db01d2e1954dc9243ea8baec84ddec97.webp 200w,\n/static/410b455d72d1353fc1e2896e38c8de85/1f5c5/db01d2e1954dc9243ea8baec84ddec97.webp 400w,\n/static/410b455d72d1353fc1e2896e38c8de85/58556/db01d2e1954dc9243ea8baec84ddec97.webp 800w,\n/static/410b455d72d1353fc1e2896e38c8de85/99238/db01d2e1954dc9243ea8baec84ddec97.webp 1200w,\n/static/410b455d72d1353fc1e2896e38c8de85/5e0b8/db01d2e1954dc9243ea8baec84ddec97.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2053-markdown","title":"Download our Medical Marijuana Patient Study","slug":"download-our-medical-marijuana-patient-study","content":"For us at HelloMD, the medical cannabis industry is an exciting and fascinating business to be in. Every day we leave the office knowing that we are improving people's lives and helping further the cause for mainstream acceptance of this amazing plant.  In the short time since we’ve been providing our service (one year) we’ve witnessed a positive shift in how the broader population perceive the legal cannabis market. The collective contribution of the industry has performed a remarkable feat in changing attitudes and in moving us from back-alley to the main street.\r\n\r\nWe have come far. Yet, for anyone entering the industry, indeed for anyone in it, it can still be difficult finding information to help plan and grow a business. Very little is published indicating patient preferences, methods of use, reasons for use, etc. Most in the industry are planning products and services based upon small sample sets of anecdotal data and intuition. Not that there is anything wrong with that. After all, we did that. But if that’s all you’ve got, then it’s really difficult to identify trends and to plan ahead. \r\n\r\nThat is why, in January of this year, we conducted a detailed study of patients that use medical marijuana. \r\n\r\n[Download the medical marijuana patient study here](https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/hellomd-news/HelloMD_Medical_Marijuana_Patient_Survey.pdf).\r\n\r\nWe believe it to be the most comprehensive study to date and we are very pleased to share it with the community at large. Our methodology included surveying our membership of 17,000 patients (all of whom have been evaluated by our own doctors), correlating with other data sets (public and private), analyzing, and then using the results to form key findings. Thanks to our friends at [FireFly](http://www.thefirefly.com) (of whom generously donated 5 of their beautiful vaporizers as an incentive to participants) we had an exceptional response of over 1,400 patients. Anonymously, every one of them answered an extensive questionnaire that detailed their own experience and details regarding conditions leading to use, modes of use, efficacy, and much more.\r\n\r\nAll this data led to key findings and learning's that helped us understand:  \r\n\r\n - The demographic of patients using medical marijuana today, and how it has been changing overtime\r\n - Conditions being treating with medical cannabis\r\n - How effective cannabis is as a treatment modality\r\n - How patients feel about using cannabis as an alternative, or as a compliment, to other more-traditional prescribed pharmaceuticals\r\n - How, or if, patients talk about their use of cannabis among family, friends and colleagues.\r\n - Where medical cannabis purchases are made\r\n - Where patients obtain education and knowledge of medical cannabis\r\n\r\nPerhaps the most surprising finding; an emerging demographic that, indisputably, is eclipsing the recreational demographic. This has all sorts of implications – politically and otherwise.\r\n\r\nWe have compiled all findings into a report that can be [downloaded as a PDF here](https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/hellomd-news/HelloMD_Medical_Marijuana_Patient_Survey.pdf).","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5151515151515151,"src":"/static/e8673bbdb39b8593fd7a7da80b6c7825/14b42/38cff30a6e1ef5b926d055a399eae91d.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e8673bbdb39b8593fd7a7da80b6c7825/f836f/38cff30a6e1ef5b926d055a399eae91d.jpg 200w,\n/static/e8673bbdb39b8593fd7a7da80b6c7825/2244e/38cff30a6e1ef5b926d055a399eae91d.jpg 400w,\n/static/e8673bbdb39b8593fd7a7da80b6c7825/14b42/38cff30a6e1ef5b926d055a399eae91d.jpg 800w,\n/static/e8673bbdb39b8593fd7a7da80b6c7825/47498/38cff30a6e1ef5b926d055a399eae91d.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/e8673bbdb39b8593fd7a7da80b6c7825/58556/38cff30a6e1ef5b926d055a399eae91d.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e8673bbdb39b8593fd7a7da80b6c7825/61e93/38cff30a6e1ef5b926d055a399eae91d.webp 200w,\n/static/e8673bbdb39b8593fd7a7da80b6c7825/1f5c5/38cff30a6e1ef5b926d055a399eae91d.webp 400w,\n/static/e8673bbdb39b8593fd7a7da80b6c7825/58556/38cff30a6e1ef5b926d055a399eae91d.webp 800w,\n/static/e8673bbdb39b8593fd7a7da80b6c7825/99238/38cff30a6e1ef5b926d055a399eae91d.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1990-markdown","title":"The Stars Look Very Different Today","slug":"the-stars-look-very-different-today","content":"### The Thin White Duke Departs. \r\n\r\nBy now you’ve heard the news, and if you were anyone like me, you’ve spent more than a moment to revisit some of Bowie's greatest contributions in respect of his passing. This last Sunday was a sad day indeed. The world lost a great artist, a maverick, an iconoclast, and a true creative genius. For countless, he was an inspiration.\r\n\r\nWhile searching for more details of the illness that lead to his death, I came across an article reminding me of a long forgotten incident. On March 22nd, 1976, David Bowie, and a couple of his entourage (including James Osterberg, aka Iggy Pop) were arrested for possession of marijuana in Rochester, NY. The Vice Squad entered a hotel room in which all were present, searched, and recovered about a half pound of cannabis. It could have ended badly, for at the time such an offense could have resulted in 15 years prison time. The jury did not indict him. \r\n\r\n>The original news article from March 22, 1976, [has been re-published here](http://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/local/rocroots/2016/01/11/david-bowie-rochester-arrest-march-1976/78619818/) by the Democrat Chronicle.\r\n\r\nTo me, several things are remarkable about this event – albeit in hindsight. How threatened this conservative society in upstate NY must have felt in order to have gone after David Bowie (and friends) in order to convict and put him away – especially with such zeal. Throughout all media coverage at the time, including transcripts of court appearances and televised interviews, Bowie upheld nothing less than a very polite and gracious persona. He couldn’t have come off any more opposite than what his prosecutors were convinced that he was – a deadbeat, a stoner, and a scourge on society. Unlike many music artists of today, he was a class act. He has always been a class act. It’s absurd that the community leaders of the time were so threatened by Bowie’s perceived representation of moral decline and so convinced of his devil ways. How far we have come. \r\n\r\n### How Far We Have Come \r\n\r\nOr have we? \r\n\r\nI’m fortunate to live in a state (California) that has seen the benefits of cannabis as a holistic catalyst for health and well-being. It’s very likely that this year, 2016, will be the year cannabis use becomes legal for recreation in California too. Yet, so many states, indeed our own federal government, are still holding the arcane view that cannabis has no medicinal value and is still associated with moral turpitude – bolstering the out-of-date stereotype and stigma. This really bothers me. \r\n\r\nHere at HelloMD, the observed demographic of patients that use our service might surprise the politicians and legislators. Daily we see working professionals, veterans, elderly, moms, dads, and people that look like you and me. They may well be your family, your neighbors or your colleagues. None of them are deadbeats. None of them are a scourge on society. All of them have a legitimate health need for using cannabis. \r\n\r\nDavid Bowie, a long time resident of NYC, was probably not able to legally use cannabis as part of his treatment regime. Being terminally ill from cancer of the liver would have surely qualified him to do so, but the laws governing medicinal cannabis enacted by the state came in too late (not to mention the fact that they appear overly restricting).\r\n\r\nAttitudes can change over time, and they are, but there is still much to be done to educate and inform. Those old stigmas and stereotypes need to be put on trial and put away. \r\n\r\nDavid Bowie, you were just ahead of your time. You always were. That is why we loved you. You showed us the future.\r\n\r\nSo long. We miss you already.\r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5151515151515151,"src":"/static/dc16f108390fc8b6e873430cb92e7a46/14b42/69abc3c86b2d039cfecebc4f9e6f4c3c.jpg","srcSet":"/static/dc16f108390fc8b6e873430cb92e7a46/f836f/69abc3c86b2d039cfecebc4f9e6f4c3c.jpg 200w,\n/static/dc16f108390fc8b6e873430cb92e7a46/2244e/69abc3c86b2d039cfecebc4f9e6f4c3c.jpg 400w,\n/static/dc16f108390fc8b6e873430cb92e7a46/14b42/69abc3c86b2d039cfecebc4f9e6f4c3c.jpg 800w,\n/static/dc16f108390fc8b6e873430cb92e7a46/47498/69abc3c86b2d039cfecebc4f9e6f4c3c.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/dc16f108390fc8b6e873430cb92e7a46/58556/69abc3c86b2d039cfecebc4f9e6f4c3c.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/dc16f108390fc8b6e873430cb92e7a46/61e93/69abc3c86b2d039cfecebc4f9e6f4c3c.webp 200w,\n/static/dc16f108390fc8b6e873430cb92e7a46/1f5c5/69abc3c86b2d039cfecebc4f9e6f4c3c.webp 400w,\n/static/dc16f108390fc8b6e873430cb92e7a46/58556/69abc3c86b2d039cfecebc4f9e6f4c3c.webp 800w,\n/static/dc16f108390fc8b6e873430cb92e7a46/99238/69abc3c86b2d039cfecebc4f9e6f4c3c.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1994-markdown","title":"Why Your Parents Need to Learn About Cannabis","slug":"why-your-parents-need-to-learn-about-cannabis","content":"**The Dream of Retirement**\r\n\r\nThe golden years: that bastion of life that promises retirement from the grind, financial independence, and unfettered access to all the things we enjoy. At least, that’s the dream. A dream pushed upon us by relentless advertising from the pharmaceutical, life insurance, and banking industries.\r\n\r\nOf course, I want that dream. Who wouldn’t? But, if reality is to have it’s way – and it most often does – then the grind is likely to have its grip on me until the very end. And that dream? Well, it’s probably destined to remain as just that – a dream. \r\n\r\nAs a doctor, I meet with many seniors. I listen to them, and I watch them as they age. I see their attitudes change. I see their needs, wants, and desires change. I see their lives change – often for the worse. I hear them wish for a good nights sleep, hands that don’t shake, knees that don’t hurt, a day of comfort – things we take for granted while younger. These observations have influenced me and, as I near the so-called golden years period myself, the way I think about the effects of aging. \r\n\r\nI keep arriving at the same place...\r\n\r\n**Getting old sucks!**\r\n\r\nIf you live long enough – and most of us will these days – the adverse symptoms of aging are hard to avoid. While many people are healthy and active into their late 90s, the majority of us will face typical aging related health issues such as insomnia, chronic pain, impaired vision and motor function, reduced appetite – the list goes on and on. Many will deal with symptoms so degenerative – like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s – that they will lose their independence and require assisted living facilities or hospitals for the reminder of their days.\r\n\r\nWhile we consider it very fortunate to have a long life, the ailments associated with aging have not been easy to treat with conventional medicine. Often, the pharmaceuticals prescribed can cause health implications of their own. Prescribing them is a bit hit-or-miss. We don’t really know how an individual will react. We can’t know. Different people react differently to the same pharmaceutical. It becomes trial and error, rinse and repeat. For many, one pill begets the next and before you know it you have a potpourri of pharmaceuticals that are organized, by the bucket, for swallowing at scheduled times through the day – every day. For patients that are agitated, uncomfortable, or in pain, the entire process can be frustrating and the results are often questionable if not disappointing.\r\n\r\n**Pills, pills, and more pills**\r\n\r\nIt pains me to watch as some folk react badly to this routine. Side effects occur more often than not - often in the form of seizures, nausea or emotional disturbances such as uncontrollable crying and depression (this is especially true for some sleeping pills on the market today). When these reactions occur, more pharmaceuticals are prescribed to deal with the side effects. And, those are the side effects we know about. What about the unseen side effects? The potentially irreparable damage we may do at cellular level, or at a neurological level?\r\n\r\nDon’t get me wrong; with the advent of many pharmaceuticals we’ve improved the overall health of society immensely. Many drug discovery and pharmaceutical innovations have been nothing short of revolutionary at turning back disease and improving people’s lives. But that’s not really what I’m talking about. I’m talking about the habitual crutch that prescribing pharmaceuticals has become – especially to the elderly.     \r\n\r\n**It's just not right**\r\n\r\nOver the years, as a doctor, observing all of this trial and error, and the general reliance on prescription pharmaceuticals for uncertain results – well, it no longer sits right with me. And it flat out saddens me when I see powerful painkillers and antipsychotics used to sedate some elderly into a manageable submission.\r\n\r\nThese are our seniors, they deserve our respect and they deserve better treatment. At the very least, they deserve an alternative. \r\n\r\n**There is an alternative** \r\n\r\nIt’s been under our nose for millennia, it’s less toxic, and it’s entirely natural. It’s cannabis. Or, to those conforming to legislation, it’s medical marijuana.\r\n\r\nAs cannabis slowly emerges from a long quarantine imposed by authorities acting on misinformation, fear, uncertainty and doubt, we are beginning to learn of its medicinal and health properties. Several years of research performed by many credible institutions are all arriving at the same result. Indeed, cannabis looks like a wonder plant – nature’s gift to humanity. The list of conditions that cannabis is most effective for reads like a list of typical ailments afflicting seniors. Chronic pain (from inflammation of joints and stiff limbs), insomnia, lack of appetite, lethargy and reduced energy, anxiety, are but a few. All affect ones mood and general sense of well being of which cannabis is also said to elevate. There are even reports suggesting certain cannabinoids (found within cannabis) have been effective at arresting some cancers, restoring motor control, and eliminating seizures. \r\n\r\n**Their own worst enemy**\r\n\r\nSuffice to say, this is a population that could benefit tremendously from cannabis, yet their access is limited -- if even considered.\r\n\r\nSeniors themselves are often the first to resist using medical cannabis because of societal concerns about using a drug that the federal government deems illegal. For those that do want to use cannabis, they often don’t know where to go, or how to get it. Only rarely will their doctor support the use of cannabis (it’s more common for a doctor to steer away from the cannabis conversation). This last fact, I can attest. I was that doctor – shaped by decades of misinformation. Prevailing attitudes will change, although it may take a full generation cycle before we see results.\r\n\r\n**It starts with you**\r\n\r\nFor many, cannabis is making their lives more tolerable. For others, it is extending their lives. These are not isolated cases. As Chief Medical Officer at HelloMD.com, I’m hearing such testimonials on a daily basis. Legalization aside, for widespread acceptance there is still one large obstacle to overcome – education. And for your parents, that might start with you.\r\n\r\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5151515151515151,"src":"/static/9bb3d1cbcc24e1e968d7d7d45654de66/14b42/2f1205dc5df5fb3975b1f71f90b0f6a7.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9bb3d1cbcc24e1e968d7d7d45654de66/f836f/2f1205dc5df5fb3975b1f71f90b0f6a7.jpg 200w,\n/static/9bb3d1cbcc24e1e968d7d7d45654de66/2244e/2f1205dc5df5fb3975b1f71f90b0f6a7.jpg 400w,\n/static/9bb3d1cbcc24e1e968d7d7d45654de66/14b42/2f1205dc5df5fb3975b1f71f90b0f6a7.jpg 800w,\n/static/9bb3d1cbcc24e1e968d7d7d45654de66/47498/2f1205dc5df5fb3975b1f71f90b0f6a7.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/9bb3d1cbcc24e1e968d7d7d45654de66/58556/2f1205dc5df5fb3975b1f71f90b0f6a7.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/9bb3d1cbcc24e1e968d7d7d45654de66/61e93/2f1205dc5df5fb3975b1f71f90b0f6a7.webp 200w,\n/static/9bb3d1cbcc24e1e968d7d7d45654de66/1f5c5/2f1205dc5df5fb3975b1f71f90b0f6a7.webp 400w,\n/static/9bb3d1cbcc24e1e968d7d7d45654de66/58556/2f1205dc5df5fb3975b1f71f90b0f6a7.webp 800w,\n/static/9bb3d1cbcc24e1e968d7d7d45654de66/99238/2f1205dc5df5fb3975b1f71f90b0f6a7.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2034-markdown","title":"Death Score: Opioids 16235. Cannabis 0.","slug":"death-score-opioids-16235-cannabis-0","content":"Living with chronic pain and trying to treat it can be difficult and frustrating. Unfortunately, many healthcare professionals ignore or are unaware of the benefits of medical marijuana for pain management, choosing to prescribe opioid-type drugs to mask symptoms. \n\n[Marijuana has been used to effectively battle chronic pain for centuries](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55dfb34e3763370006c70000/the-history-of-medical-marijuana-usage). But despite the success patients have achieved through the use of medical cannabis, its usage still lags far behind opioids. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that 10% of prescribing medical professionals account for 50% of opioid prescriptions, illustrating a pattern of over-usage in chronic pain situations. While surveys show that [76% of doctors approve of medical marijuana](http://www.cbsnews.com/news/survey-76-percent-of-doctors-approve-of-medical-marijuana-use/), statistics indicate that [only 1.1 million patients have current prescriptions](http://medicalmarijuana.procon.org/view.resource.php?resourceID=005889),\na number that falls far short of opioid usage. However, [92% of users say medical\ncannabis absolutely works](https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2014/10/01/92-of-patients-say-medical-marijuana-works/) to treat their conditions.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Medical Marijuana Could Save Lives\n\nThe _Washington Post_ reports that [changing from a regimen of addiction-inducing opioids to non-addictive medical cannabis could literally save lives](https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2015/07/14/how-medical marijuana-could-literally-save-lives/). Everyone agrees with their claim of saved lives, considering the tens of millions of patients currently addicted to opioids and a frightening CDC-compiled statistic that [more than 1,000 people a day are treated in emergency rooms for opioid misuse](http://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/data/overdose.html).\n\nTo put this into perspective, [43,982 people died of drug overdoses in 2013](http://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/data/overdose.html), and more than 50% of those deaths were from prescription drugs. Of the prescription drug overdoses, more than 70% were due to opioid-based medications, totaling 16,235 people. \n\nThat’s an astronomical number of lost lives stemming from doctors prescribing opioid pain medication. During the same year, [exactly zero people died from marijuana use](http://www.drugwarfacts.org/cms/Causes_of_Death). There could truly be no deeper disparity than losing tens of thousands of lives per year to opioids, which are addictive and may or may not work, versus medical cannabis usage that doesn’t lead to addiction and has a far higher number of patients reporting positive results.\n\n### Cannabis Helps With Chronic Pain \n\nIn addition to treatment for non-specific chronic pain, medical cannabis is also a successful treatment option for painful disorders like arthritis. Where pharmaceutical painkillers may fall short and opioids over-treat and overwhelm, [medical marijuana with high concentrations of cannabinoids can lead to decreased inflammation](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a720780f24d1300077ccb25/3-popular-questions-about-marijuana-and-arthritis-answered) and increased pain relief. While other pain medications simply mask pain or decrease pain sensitivity for shorter periods of time, medical marijuana can actually get to the root of the problem and provide longer-lasting relief with fewer side effects or long-term implications.\n\nMedical marijuana can improve the quality of life for chronic pain patients; it can also save lives. Meanwhile, opioids don't treat chronic pain as effectively and claim more lives per year than suicide, car accident fatalities and gun-related deaths combined. A National Bureau of Economic Research study shows that [increased medical marijuana use is directly proportional to decreased opioid abuse](http://www.nber.org/papers/w21345). The positives of saved lives and reduced levels of addiction could not possibly be overstated, and those positives tie back to responsible medical cannabis usage.\n\n### An Argument for Medicinal Marijuana Legalization\n\nA _Washington Post_ article shows a [direct correlation between states that have legalized medical marijuana dispensaries and the subsequent reduction of opioid-linked deaths](https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2014/08/25/is-medical-marijuana-the-answer-to-americas-prescription-painkiller-epidemic/). \n\nAdd to that a study published in the [_Journal of American Medical Association Internal Medicine_](http://archinte.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=1898878) that found \"states with medical cannabis laws had a 24.8 percent lower mean annual opioid overdose mortality rate\" than states that hadn't yet legalized medical marijuana.\n\nNeedless to say, the argument is very strong to push for cannabis legalization across the rest of the U.S. Millions of patients suffering from a variety of disorders could find much-needed relief with medical cannabis. In addition, the lives of countless chronic pain patients could be preserved and bettered through medical cannabis instead of dangerously addictive opioid drugs.\n\n[Photo Credit](https://www.flickr.com/photos/26553756@N06/2653991611)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5151515151515151,"src":"/static/639367d57eb29c210f60ee59f076f66e/14b42/d74555200ef8a176627c7c62c973c2b5.jpg","srcSet":"/static/639367d57eb29c210f60ee59f076f66e/f836f/d74555200ef8a176627c7c62c973c2b5.jpg 200w,\n/static/639367d57eb29c210f60ee59f076f66e/2244e/d74555200ef8a176627c7c62c973c2b5.jpg 400w,\n/static/639367d57eb29c210f60ee59f076f66e/14b42/d74555200ef8a176627c7c62c973c2b5.jpg 800w,\n/static/639367d57eb29c210f60ee59f076f66e/47498/d74555200ef8a176627c7c62c973c2b5.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/639367d57eb29c210f60ee59f076f66e/58556/d74555200ef8a176627c7c62c973c2b5.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/639367d57eb29c210f60ee59f076f66e/61e93/d74555200ef8a176627c7c62c973c2b5.webp 200w,\n/static/639367d57eb29c210f60ee59f076f66e/1f5c5/d74555200ef8a176627c7c62c973c2b5.webp 400w,\n/static/639367d57eb29c210f60ee59f076f66e/58556/d74555200ef8a176627c7c62c973c2b5.webp 800w,\n/static/639367d57eb29c210f60ee59f076f66e/99238/d74555200ef8a176627c7c62c973c2b5.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2014-markdown","title":"Rubbing It In (and 6 Other Ways to Use Cannabis)","slug":"rubbing-it-in-and-6-other-ways-to-use-cannabis","content":"More and more [scientific studies and clinical\ntests](http://www.cannabis-med.org/studies/study.php) are substantiating\nthe benefits of medical marijuana in alleviating the symptoms of\nnumerous medical conditions. Due to its wide range of application,\nmedical cannabis is now available in various forms, so patients can\nchoose a method of ingestion that works best with their condition. The\nmethod of consumption primarily affects the time it takes to feel its\neffect, as well as the duration of its efficacy. Here's a guide that\ndiscusses the different methods of consuming this wonder plant.\n\n\nBreathe it in [vape it]\n-----------------------\n\nIf you want the benefits of marijuana without inhaling any of its toxic\ncompounds (such as you might from smoking it), using a vaporizer is the best way to go. With this method, medical cannabis is heated at just the right temperature to extract its\nuseful compounds with digital accuracy, so you get to inhale its vapor\ninstead of its smoke. In addition, vaporizers also increase the potency\nof medical cannabis. Thus, you can have twice as much effect for half\nthe amount of marijuana.\n\nEven though this method is relatively new, it is fast becoming the preferred way to use cannabis for many. Scientific studies already support its beneficial effects compared to smoking. In [2010\nstudy](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20451365), Van Dam NT and\nEarleywine M. from the University of Albany recruited 20 cannabis users\nwith at least 2 respiratory symptoms to investigate the effect of\nvaporized cannabis on the pulmonary function of the participants.\nFindings of the study reveal improved respiratory function in\nparticipants after a month's use of vaporized cannabis, suggesting the\npotential of this method of delivery in reducing the harmful risk it may\nhave on the respiratory system.\n\nRub it in\n---------\n\nMedical marijuana can also be applied topically on the skin surface in\nthe form of salve, spray, cream, balm, oil, or lotion. Topical\nformulation provides anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and analgesic\neffects without delivering any of the psychoactive properties of\ncannabis. Topical cannabis is commonly used by patients suffering from\narthritis, sunburns, tendonitis, joint pain, muscle soreness, and skin\ndiseases.\n\nEat it\n------\n\nEdibles or foods that contain cannabis, are cooked using oils or butters derived\nfrom the plant. Most users who use this method of consumption report\nthat the cannabis takes effect gradually and wears off longer. Eating\nedibles is usually recommended for patients with chronic pain or sleep\ndisorder, as well as spasticity, because of its more pronounced effect\non the body, rather than the mind. The downside of using this type of\nmedical marijuana is that the dosage is never perfectly precise and with\ndelayed onset of effects compared to inhaled cannabis, you may\ninadvertently consume more than necessary. In addition, what you already\nhave in your digestive system (i.e medication and food you've eaten\nrecently) may interact with THC to produce unpredictable effects on your\nbody.\n\nIngestible Oils\n---------------\n\nThis kind of cannabis product is a blend of edibles and concentrates.\nIngestible oils are made by using an alcohol solvent to extract the\ntherapeutic chemicals found in marijuana. Once the solvent evaporates,\nwhat will be left are these tar-like oils, which have high amount of\ncannabidiol (CBD) and traces of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC); thus,\nstripping the oil of the psychoactive substance of marijuana. The oil is\nplaced in a capsule for easy ingestion.\n\nTinctures\n---------\n\nIf you want a fast-acting application with dosages you can easily\ncontrol,\ntinctures are the one of the best method of using medical cannabis. Tinctures are\nconcentrated form of medical marijuana, which are formulated in an\nalcohol solution and can be applied directly on your skin, mixed with\nfood or beverages, or placed in small amounts under your tongue. Because\nof their potency, you need to be extra careful with their dosage. It's\nbest to start with smaller doses, allowing some time to feel their\neffect, before adding more.\n\nDrink it\n--------\n\nOther parts of the cannabis plant like its stem, leaves, and buds can be\nbrewed to make a medicinal beverage. The potency of the tea can vary\ndepending on the amount of cannabis used. If you have just started\nmaking your concoction, use a small amount of marijuana at first before\nadding more to achieve a suitable dosage. In addition, you also need to\nadd oil, butter, or alcohol to dissolve THC, as the compound is not\nwater soluble. Like edibles, the effects of marijuana teas are\nslow-acting because the therapeutic compounds in cannabis first must be\nabsorbed in your digestive tract. However, you can count on the effects\nlingering for up to four to eight hours after ingestion.\n\nAside from teas, many dispensaries have medicated coffee and sodas.\nThese beverages are made by adding drops of tincture to the liquid, so\nthat you can easily ingest medical cannabis while taking a sip of your\nfavorite beverage.\n\nSmoke it\n--------\n\nCall it old-school, but smoking has been the most conventional way of consuming marijuana for\nmany years. You can smoke cannabis using a pipe, rolling papers, water\npipes, and in rare instances, it can be inhaled using hookahs. The\nadvantage of smoking marijuana is that the plant's effect can be felt\nalmost immediately. However, many medical organizations, including the\n[American Lung Association](http://www.lung.org/stop-smoking/smoking-facts/marijuana-and-lung-health.html?referrer=https://www.google.com.ph/),\ndiscourage this method of consumption, as it may have adverse effect on\nyour lungs and increase your risk for respiratory disease.\n\nIf you do choose to smoke medical cannabis, it's best that you use a\nhand pipe that allows you to smoke consistent doses regularly. If you're\nusing rolling paper, make sure you use a filter. In addition, for\nmaximum efficacy with the least inhalation, it's better to use cannabis\nwith higher THC potency and to exhale the smoke right after inhaling it\ndeeply to keep its harmful compounds from coating your lungs.\n\n\n\nMedical cannabis is now available in so many forms, it shouldn't be\ndifficult for you to choose an option that suits your condition and\npreference.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5151515151515151,"src":"/static/c0a6d317ed3e897e2fcd5dbfb24f4036/14b42/9d2e8762f500ff9ab2854e91fca569ad.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c0a6d317ed3e897e2fcd5dbfb24f4036/f836f/9d2e8762f500ff9ab2854e91fca569ad.jpg 200w,\n/static/c0a6d317ed3e897e2fcd5dbfb24f4036/2244e/9d2e8762f500ff9ab2854e91fca569ad.jpg 400w,\n/static/c0a6d317ed3e897e2fcd5dbfb24f4036/14b42/9d2e8762f500ff9ab2854e91fca569ad.jpg 800w,\n/static/c0a6d317ed3e897e2fcd5dbfb24f4036/47498/9d2e8762f500ff9ab2854e91fca569ad.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/c0a6d317ed3e897e2fcd5dbfb24f4036/58556/9d2e8762f500ff9ab2854e91fca569ad.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c0a6d317ed3e897e2fcd5dbfb24f4036/61e93/9d2e8762f500ff9ab2854e91fca569ad.webp 200w,\n/static/c0a6d317ed3e897e2fcd5dbfb24f4036/1f5c5/9d2e8762f500ff9ab2854e91fca569ad.webp 400w,\n/static/c0a6d317ed3e897e2fcd5dbfb24f4036/58556/9d2e8762f500ff9ab2854e91fca569ad.webp 800w,\n/static/c0a6d317ed3e897e2fcd5dbfb24f4036/99238/9d2e8762f500ff9ab2854e91fca569ad.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":0,"numPages":1,"currentPage":1,"id":5225,"name":"Education","slug":"education","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}