{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/mdma/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_3921-markdown","title":"What is DMT: Psychedelics 101","slug":"what-is-dmt-psychedelics-101","content":"Hallucinogenics have been a hot topic in recent years, and this includes N, N-Dimethyltryptamine (**DMT**). This psychedelic drug is in the spotlight because of advocates like Joe Rogan and recent findings within the scientific community. \nResearchers are starting to publish scientific papers on DMT and have uncovered new potential therapeutic uses, including the treatment of depression.\n\n### What Is DMT?\nN, N-Dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is a mixed serotonin receptor agonist found naturally in several organisms, including humans. [Studies have detected it](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18805646/) in the human blood, brain, and cerebrospinal fluid. It's believed to be widespread throughout the natural kingdom, present in [thousands of plants](https://www.businessinsider.com/the-research-on-the-hallucinogenic-drug-dmt-2018-3), mammals, and amphibians. \n\nFor example, DMT is known to be secreted by the glands of the Sonoran Desert toad. In [one recent study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30982127/), researchers examined dried toad secretion containing 5-MeO-DMT. A single inhalation eased anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms while enhancing life satisfaction. \n\nDMT is also a synthetic psychedelic drug taken to alter and expand consciousness. Plants and vines are boiled in religious ceremonies to make a tea-like substance of varying strengths. In this form, it is a white, crystalline powder. Synthetic DMT is administered in several ways, often through smoking. However, you can also get vape oil that contains this hallucinogen.\n\nA vape pen combines either N, N-DMT (the type commonly found in plants) or 5-MeO-DMT (found in toad venom) with an e-liquid base.\nDMT is also found in the popular psychedelic *ayahuasca*. It shares similar properties to [LSD](https://hellomd.com/articles/what-is-lsd-psychedelics-101) and [psilocybin](https://hellomd.com/tag/psilocybin/) but offers consumers a unique experience that differs from other psychedelics.\n\n### What Are the Effects of DMT?\nAlthough DMT has been used for centuries in South America, the psychedelic effects of this substance were first scientifically examined and reported in the 1950s. In the 1960s, researchers discovered this naturally occurring chemical in the human body, and in recent years, its use has significantly increased. Consumers are often interested in the drug's psychological effects — especially the ability to experience an altered sense of space, body, and time.\n\nOne of the common features of this psychedelic experience includes a feeling of transcending from one's body to enter an alternative realm. Consumers often describe this as [a near-death experience](https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2018.01424/full), which is why many experts in the medical field refer to it as the [spirit molecule](https://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/appi.ajp.159.8.1448). \nThe experience is powerful, characterized by vivid and elaborate visual imagery and auditory hallucinations. [Michael Pollan referred to DMT](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ASm3EJAFjYQ) being like a rocket ship.\n\n### What Are the Therapeutic Benefits of DMT?\nDMT is being studied for its potential role in psychedelic-assisted therapy. This emerging field of research is uncovering the effect of powerful hallucinogenic substances concerning mood and anxiety disorders. A growing body of evidence indicates that psychedelics, including N, N-Dimethyltryptamine, are safe and effective for treating various mental illnesses and may be used to support talk therapy. That said, DMT is a far way off from being used in clinical settings. \n\nUnlike antidepressants, which tend to numb negative feelings, researchers believe DMT can initiate long-lasting change. DMT and other psychedelics allow users to approach difficult experiences and process them in a way that helps with [treatment-resistant depression](https://www.healtheuropa.eu/combatting-resistant-depression-with-dmt-and-digital-therapy/103098/). Similar research is mounting for [ketamine](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/what-is-ketamine-psychedelics-101), [MDMA](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/what-is-mdma-psychedelics-101), [psilocybin](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/what-is-psilocybin-psychedelics-101), and [LSD](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/what-is-lsd-psychedelics-101). MDMA is likely to be legalized in 2023 for clinical treatment of depression, followed by psilocybin in 2024. \n\nAlthough more research is required, compelling evidence is piling up, sparking greater interest within the scientific community. In order for DMT to be used in clinical settings, it will need to go through clinical trials and receive approval from the FDA.\n\n### Are There Any Risks Associated With DMT?\n\nConsumers taking DMT for scientific purposes require monitoring and supervision, which reduces the risk of complications. Although many people walk away from their experience with a new outlook on life, describing the experience as positive and profound, it is essential to consider some possible side effects for those with pre-existing health conditions. \n\nFor example, this psychedelic can:\n- Increase your blood pressure and heart rate\n- Cause chest pain \n- Cause dizziness\n- Cause vomiting and diarrhea when taken orally \n\nSince DMT is structurally similar to the neurotransmitter serotonin, people taking antidepressants must be aware of serotonin syndrome, a potentially dangerous condition. Too much serotonin in your body can cause high blood pressure, agitation, loss of muscle coordination, and confusion. \nPsychotic episodes associated with DMT and *ayahuasca* are a rare phenomenon. However, certain individuals face a higher risk. This psychedelic shows immense promise for some mental health conditions but may cause adverse effects for users living with [psychotic disorders](https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/2045125316689030), such as [schizophrenia](https://hellomd.ca/articles/cbd-helps-alleviate-symptoms-of-schizophrenia). \n\n### Is DMT Legal?\nIn the United States, DMT is a [Schedule I controlled substance](https://www.dea.gov/drug-information/drug-scheduling#:~:text=Schedule%20I%20drugs%2C%20substances). This classification means it's **illegal** to manufacture, possess, buy, or distribute. Although DMT has no approved medical use, researchers can use it in controlled settings. \n\nDMT-containing substances are illegal in most nations around the globe. However, some countries allow for the possession and use of substances that contain this chemical compound, [including ayahuasca](https://digitalcommons.wou.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1009&context=his). These countries include Brazil, Costa Rica, Peru, and Italy. So, while DMT is prohibited in these places, ayahuasca, which contains this hallucinogen, is not. \n\nIn the United States, there are gray areas. Santo Daime and União do Vegetal (UDV) are \"ayahuasca churches\" founded in Brazil, with branches in the U.S. Following long legal battles, the [Supreme Court ruled in 2006](https://drugpolicy.org/news/2006/02/supreme-court-rules-unanimously-favor-church) that UDV members in the U.S. could legally use ayahuasca as a religious sacrament. Similar battles have been fought and won among Native American Church members concerning peyote. \n\n### Where Can I Legally Seek DMT Treatment?\nDMT is illegal in countries such as Mexico, although 5-MeO-DMT retreats are relatively common. When seeking treatment, it is critical that you diligently vet facilitators to ensure a safe experience. Many individuals in North America flock to South America in search of a psychedelic awakening, but there are now opportunities closer to home. Although this psychedelic remains illegal, Canada's first psychedelic-enhanced psychotherapy facility opened in 2020. \n\n### Get Your Medical Document & Purchase Medical Cannabis\nIt's easy to get your medical document with the online [Telehealth service HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/get-started/). Register, pay for, and receive an online medical consultation with a licensed practitioner, and purchase medical cannabis today.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1,"src":"/static/f9d35c12db0f07bc5f5b0a253554f8eb/ee604/39e1688a99bc9c01f8b4d5e9fc539b67.png","srcSet":"/static/f9d35c12db0f07bc5f5b0a253554f8eb/69585/39e1688a99bc9c01f8b4d5e9fc539b67.png 200w,\n/static/f9d35c12db0f07bc5f5b0a253554f8eb/497c6/39e1688a99bc9c01f8b4d5e9fc539b67.png 400w,\n/static/f9d35c12db0f07bc5f5b0a253554f8eb/ee604/39e1688a99bc9c01f8b4d5e9fc539b67.png 800w,\n/static/f9d35c12db0f07bc5f5b0a253554f8eb/f3583/39e1688a99bc9c01f8b4d5e9fc539b67.png 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/f9d35c12db0f07bc5f5b0a253554f8eb/58556/39e1688a99bc9c01f8b4d5e9fc539b67.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f9d35c12db0f07bc5f5b0a253554f8eb/61e93/39e1688a99bc9c01f8b4d5e9fc539b67.webp 200w,\n/static/f9d35c12db0f07bc5f5b0a253554f8eb/1f5c5/39e1688a99bc9c01f8b4d5e9fc539b67.webp 400w,\n/static/f9d35c12db0f07bc5f5b0a253554f8eb/58556/39e1688a99bc9c01f8b4d5e9fc539b67.webp 800w,\n/static/f9d35c12db0f07bc5f5b0a253554f8eb/99238/39e1688a99bc9c01f8b4d5e9fc539b67.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3880-markdown","title":"What is MDMA: Psychedelics 101","slug":"what-is-mdma-psychedelics-101","content":"### What is MDMA?\n\nMDMA is short for 3,4 methylenedioxymethamphetamine – a chemical compound that acts on the brain’s “feel good” neurotransmitters serotonin and, dopamine. It amplifies emotional connectedness, encourages people to be more open and trusting, and promotes a feeling of euphoria and relaxation. Although it gained a reputation as an illegal party drug, MDMA was originally intended to be used in clinical settings to treat certain conditions such as mental disorders, specific traumas, and phobias. \n\nRecently, the FDA designated MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD a Breakthrough Therapy and MAPS’ Phase 3 clinical trial of [MDMA-assisted therapy](https://maps.org/mdma/ptsd/phase3/) demonstrated statistically significant improvement in PTSD symptoms after three sessions.\n\n![MDMA psychedelic-assisted therapy](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_10_at_5_37_08_PM_3b9942c403.png)\n\n\nSome common street names for MDMA include beans, ecstasy, molly, uppers, and X. Currently, there is renewed interest in using MDMA and other psychedelics to [treat various mental health and psychological issues](https://psychedelic.support/resources/psychedelics-as-therapeutics/). Critics of blanket criminalization of many drugs claim that governments have tended to overstate their negative effects while ignoring the potential benefits of their use.  \n\n### What are the Effects of MDMA?\n\nWithin an hour of ingesting MDMA, the brain will begin to increase the production of dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. Consumers generally feel happier, and more connected to others for several hours following the initial dose. \n\n![MDMA makes people feel more connected](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_10_at_5_36_10_PM_1849df97c0.png)\n\nMDMA became a popular form of recreation at music festivals and raves due to its effects on perception, especially related to color and sound. Increased physical activity while under its influence can also lead to higher body temperatures and a warm feeling. \n\n### What are the Therapeutic Benefits of MDMA?\n\nLike all psychedelics, MDMA makes temporary changes to brain activity; however, if the brain is not functioning optimally due to some disorder, psychedelics may help a person’s brain work 'normally'. \n\n![Cannabis can ease anxiety](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_02_at_3_20_06_PM_624826d60d.png)\n\nDepression is caused by several factors, such as stress tied to specific events, an inability of the brain to regulate moods properly, chemical imbalances, and more. The Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) is [sponsoring clinical trials](https://maps.org/mdma/mdma-resources/treatment-manual-mdma-assisted-psychotherapy-for-ptsd/) to explore the potential risks and benefits of MDMA-assisted therapy in chronic posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) participants.\n\nEarly studies sponsored by MAPS reveal that overall, 83 percent of participants no longer met the criteria for PTSD after using MDMA. That kind of success, say MAPS researchers, is reason to push for final studies aimed at getting full approval to market MDMA for PTSD treatment by 2021.\n\nAnother study from 2016 found that multiple patients experienced a significant reduction or remission in their chronic depression after just a week of taking psychedelics. In addition to [treating depression and PTSD](https://hellomd.com/articles/mdma-assisted-therapy-a-successful-treatment-for-ptsd), MDMA has also helped addicts who take drugs such as heroin kick their addictions successfully. Researchers are optimistic that those who have addictions to cocaine and other drugs will experience similar benefits.\n\n### What Risks Associated with MDMA?\n\nIllicit MDMA that is improperly prepared or mixed with other chemicals can prove to be fatal or cause other health problems. Side effects can include high blood pressure, panic attacks, and seizures. Unadulterated MDMA is administered in clinical trial settings under supervision. If you decide to take MDMA outside of a setting such as this, it is highly recommended to [self-test your MDMA for purity](https://elevationchemicals.com/?gclid=Cj0KCQiAjJOQBhCkARIsAEKMtO0RqZ_usBC-Wx9HJkvrskfKfYo6nWcebhImg_xTo_wPfXIiIAVeUCUaAt5xEALw_wcB) with a testing kit - it could save your life.\n\n### Is MDMA Legal? \n\n![MDMA is a Schedule1 drug](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_10_at_5_34_37_PM_7d76171632.png)\n\nIn the United States, MDMA is classified as a [Schedule 1 substance](https://www.drugs.com/article/csa-schedule-1.html). If the FDA approves MDMA, it may become legal in clinical settings and administered by mental healthcare providers trained in psychedelic-assisted therapy.\n\nSome countries in Europe, like the Czech Republic, Spain, and Italy, have decriminalized possession of small amounts of the drug for recreational use. However, it is illegal to distribute and sell MDMA.\n\n### What Drug Interactions May Occur with MDMA?\n\n![Alcohol can have a negative interaction with MDMA](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_10_at_5_32_56_PM_885e00875e.png)\n\nThe effects of taking MDMA with other drugs − including over-the-counter or prescribed medications − can be unpredictable and dangerous. This includes [alcohol, cocaine, anti-depressants, and others](https://adf.org.au/drug-facts/mdma/#:~:text=Mixing%20MDMA%20with%20other%20drugs&text=MDMA%20%2B%20alcohol%3A%20increased%20risk%20of,consequently%20drinking%20too%20much%20water.&text=MDMA%20%2B%20ice%2C%20speed%20or%20cocaine,functioning%20due%20to%20dopamine%20depletion.). It is best to refrain from using other drugs or talk to a professional before mixing MDMA with any prescription medications, as these interaction effects can become dangerous. \n\n### Can I Legally Seek Treatment with MDMA?\n\n At this time, anyone interested in MDMA psychedelic-assisted therapy will need to join a study or research program. Clinical Trials are currently being conducted with MDMA. Organizations such as [Healthmatch](https://healthmatch.io/?utm_source=search&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign=General_Australia&utm_content=131002038924&utm_term=&gclid=Cj0KCQiAjJOQBhCkARIsAEKMtO2lMi-_CakvpfwSbI3djlLPgOIiiQSmSPTt8UHtH1MvqleK0HyE4tMaAkkOEALw_wcB) can help you find an appropriate upcoming psychedelic clinical trial.\n\n### Get Your Medical Document & Purchase Medical Cannabis\n\n![You need to get certified by a doctor to get your medical marijuana card](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_02_04_at_4_09_20_PM_d316f42934.png)\n\nIt's easy to get your medical document with the online [Telehealth service HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started). Register, pay, and receive an online medical consultation with a licensed practitioner and start purchasing medical cannabis today.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/c299948617e988d52478372c31e3332e/ee604/643fd3837b8c32bcff33ae81e409bb99.png","srcSet":"/static/c299948617e988d52478372c31e3332e/69585/643fd3837b8c32bcff33ae81e409bb99.png 200w,\n/static/c299948617e988d52478372c31e3332e/497c6/643fd3837b8c32bcff33ae81e409bb99.png 400w,\n/static/c299948617e988d52478372c31e3332e/ee604/643fd3837b8c32bcff33ae81e409bb99.png 800w,\n/static/c299948617e988d52478372c31e3332e/f3583/643fd3837b8c32bcff33ae81e409bb99.png 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/c299948617e988d52478372c31e3332e/58556/643fd3837b8c32bcff33ae81e409bb99.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c299948617e988d52478372c31e3332e/61e93/643fd3837b8c32bcff33ae81e409bb99.webp 200w,\n/static/c299948617e988d52478372c31e3332e/1f5c5/643fd3837b8c32bcff33ae81e409bb99.webp 400w,\n/static/c299948617e988d52478372c31e3332e/58556/643fd3837b8c32bcff33ae81e409bb99.webp 800w,\n/static/c299948617e988d52478372c31e3332e/99238/643fd3837b8c32bcff33ae81e409bb99.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2328-markdown","title":"MDMA Assisted Therapy: a Successful Treatment for PTSD?","slug":"mdma-assisted-therapy-a-successful-treatment-for-ptsd","content":"Ecstasy, also known as molly, is a party drug best known for its ability to promote trust, emotional openness, and general good feelings. Now, MDMA, the key ingredient in that party drug, has [won FDA approval](https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/ecstasy-could-be-breakthrough-therapy-for-soldiers-others-suffering-from-ptsd/2017/08/26/009314ca-842f-11e7-b359-15a3617c767b_story.html?utm_term=.c6feac103822) as a “breakthrough” drug that should be [fast tracked to production](https://www.fda.gov/RegulatoryInformation/LawsEnforcedbyFDA/SignificantAmendmentstotheFDCAct/FDASIA/ucm329491.htm) for its potential in treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD. But that potential has limitations – and cannabis, another controlled substance, may have far broader applications for treating the symptoms of PTSD.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nEarly studies [sponsored]( http://www.maps.org/research/mdma) by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) reveal that overall, 83 percent of participants no longer met the criteria for PTSD after using MDMA. That kind of success, say MAPS researchers, is reason to push for final studies aimed at getting full approval to market MDMA for PTSD treatment by 2021.  \n\nThe [results]( http://www.mdmaptsd.org/research-category.html)\n of the MAPS studies have recently made headlines for their promise of new hope for sufferers of PTSD. Those results come from a small number of studies that explore MDMA specifically as a tool for supporting psychotherapy, not as a treatment for PTSD symptoms themselves. \n\nBut decades of research has shown that cannabis, or “medical marijuana,” to be a safe and effective treatment for a long list of health conditions, including symptoms of PTSD. Still, cannabis remains a [Schedule I substance](https://www.dea.gov/druginfo/ds.shtml)\nwith no FDA approval on the horizon, much less recognition as a breakthrough drug.\n\nRELATED: [WHY AMERICAN VETERANS AREN’T ALLOWED TO TREAT THEIR PTSD WITH CANNABIS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/571eb64b40f3db000c0000d4/why-american-veterans-arent-allowed-to-treat-their-ptsd-with-cannabis)\n\n### What Is MDMA? \n\nMDMA is short for 3,4 methylenedioxymethamphetamine – a [chemical compound](https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/mdma-ecstasymolly) that acts on the brain’s “feel good” neurotransmitters serotonin and, dopamine. It amplifies emotional connectedness, encourages people to be more open and trusting, and promotes a feeling of euphoria and relaxation. \n\nEcstasy contains MDMA, but the two are not the same. The illegal recreational form of the drug can also include many other ingredients, some of them highly toxic. The MDMA used in PTSD research is a pure, lab-synthesized form of the drug. In all its forms, though, MDMA joins heroin and cannabis on the Drug Enforcement Administration’s list of Schedule I drugs – substances considered highly addictive and having no medical applications.\n\n### MDMA Makes PTSD Therapy More Effective\n\nPeople with PTSD experience a long list of distressing symptoms including nightmares, flashbacks, hypervigilance, anxiety and depression. A number of medications can be prescribed to treat those symptoms, such as antidepressants or sleep aids. But as used in the MAPS studies, MDMA works in a very different and highly specific way to support recovery from PTSD.\n\nA key part of PTSD treatment is therapy to help people process and come to terms with their memories of traumatic experiences. But that can be too difficult for many PTSD sufferers. The MAPS studies explored whether adding MDMA to a therapeutic treatment regimen would make that process easier. This strategy, called MDMA Assisted Therapy, takes advantage of MDMA’s properties for boosting trust, connectedness and emotional openness to create a better patient-therapist bond and encourage open communication.\n\nParticipants in the MAPS studies received a dose of MDMA just before or during three separate therapy sessions. Researchers found that the drug helped patients feel safer with the therapist and more comfortable talking about their traumatic experiences. In that way, they were able to get the full benefit of “talk” therapy designed to reduce their symptoms. Participants had no access to MDMA outside their therapy sessions, and never received more than three doses.\n\nDid it work? According to MAPS researchers, 83 percent of participants in the 7 preliminary studies no longer met the criteria for PTSD after using MDMA along with therapy. Each study involved a group ranging from 16 to over a hundred participants, most of whom had been diagnosed with treatment resistant PTSD, and they were followed for up to a year after they received therapy.\n \n### Could Marijuana Be A Better Option?\n\nCan MDMA alleviate PTSD symptoms all on its own, without highly structured therapeutic interventions? The MAPS studies don’t address that aspect of the question. But a substantial body of research indicates that cannabis certainly can.\n\nBecause cannabis and all its extracts remain on the DEA’s Schedule I, that designation severely limits government-backed research on its medical properties. But a number of large scale academic and private sector studies show that cannabis can relieve a wide range of PTSD symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, depression and hyperarousal, independent of other kinds of therapies.\n\n### Research on PTSD Symptom Relief\n\nThe number of [studies on medical cannabis](https://www.cannabis-med.org/studies/study.php) for a wide range of conditions including PTSD dwarf the MAPS MDMA studies, where the largest study group consisted of 130 individuals and the typical number of participants in any given study was under 25. Recent [studies](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/hellomd-and-uc-berkeley-release-study-on-cannabis-use-as-a-substitute-for-opioid-and-non-opioid-based-pain-medication )on medical cannabis have included data from more than 3000 participants in the HelloMD database alone, with as many as 91 percent reporting that they got more symptom relief from cannabis alone than from pharmaceuticals. \n\nAlthough the MAPS research revealed that MDMA made therapy more effective, it’s important to remember that MDMA use in those studies was limited to just three doses under the supervision of a trained therapist. Private sector and academic research on cannabis over the past two decades show that cannabis products such as cannabidiol, or CBD, can be used safely over long periods of time as needed to relieve PTSD symptoms, whether therapy is involved or not.\n\nMDMA triggers the production of positive neurotransmitters in the brain, but its effects are limited and relatively short term. Cannabis works with the body’s own vast network of endocannabinoid receptors that affect mood, immune response and a long list of other functions. In that way, cannabis can be used when needed for global benefits to both body and mind. \n\nThe MAPS research on MDMA is racing to its final stages, bringing with it new hope for PTSD sufferers whose symptoms resist other treatments. But MDMA isn’t the only party drug with medicinal properties. Compared to cannabis, it’s just the newest kid on the block.\n\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.  \n\n[Photo credit EP Holcomb](https://www.flickr.com/photos/thewhocaresgirl/4989856243/in/photolist-ohUmqe-phv4Qx-e7rj8J-6J3E2p-8AWjqc-3fMMmk-dsQrj6-VaoLeR-W4mgHW-VnMJ3v-S8XHh8-aaB3De-6KdwRg-oWK6fQ-4pC8D5-RjPyM9-e6R5ty-5z7nTc-9mmLQd-dtX8Mi-iR3Ad9-dzzVcr-2ek2ea-6ynWpe-65trSe-dvH33S-bU3H4n-QXBQep-9GyLJ1-9MFmGV-TF2jAt-493kSV-fhVAMX-72bnA-bCEdjm-5U33KM-djfETZ-7XFgKN-o97VrA-WZFs4o-fov2jw-atoz8t-6Ad7Zi-aac6uf-5wDznE-e5wkVf-aiv8jJ-dZfTZY-2pTjG4-7EtaKU)\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/e9bb14fce21e91ff343e33665f401851/14b42/cb5f6dad80e69e62ecea402fbc8a7cfe.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e9bb14fce21e91ff343e33665f401851/f836f/cb5f6dad80e69e62ecea402fbc8a7cfe.jpg 200w,\n/static/e9bb14fce21e91ff343e33665f401851/2244e/cb5f6dad80e69e62ecea402fbc8a7cfe.jpg 400w,\n/static/e9bb14fce21e91ff343e33665f401851/14b42/cb5f6dad80e69e62ecea402fbc8a7cfe.jpg 800w,\n/static/e9bb14fce21e91ff343e33665f401851/47498/cb5f6dad80e69e62ecea402fbc8a7cfe.jpg 1200w,\n/static/e9bb14fce21e91ff343e33665f401851/54ac5/cb5f6dad80e69e62ecea402fbc8a7cfe.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/e9bb14fce21e91ff343e33665f401851/58556/cb5f6dad80e69e62ecea402fbc8a7cfe.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e9bb14fce21e91ff343e33665f401851/61e93/cb5f6dad80e69e62ecea402fbc8a7cfe.webp 200w,\n/static/e9bb14fce21e91ff343e33665f401851/1f5c5/cb5f6dad80e69e62ecea402fbc8a7cfe.webp 400w,\n/static/e9bb14fce21e91ff343e33665f401851/58556/cb5f6dad80e69e62ecea402fbc8a7cfe.webp 800w,\n/static/e9bb14fce21e91ff343e33665f401851/99238/cb5f6dad80e69e62ecea402fbc8a7cfe.webp 1200w,\n/static/e9bb14fce21e91ff343e33665f401851/5e0b8/cb5f6dad80e69e62ecea402fbc8a7cfe.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":0,"numPages":1,"currentPage":1,"id":5487,"name":"Mdma","slug":"mdma","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}