{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/pain/11","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_1850-markdown","title":"Marijuana Nips Pain in the Bud","slug":"marijuana-nips-pain-in-the-bud","content":"Doctors prescribe marijuana for various conditions. Pain, however,\r\nremains the number one reason for prescription for almost 91 percent of\r\nusers across seven states. According to a 2014\r\n[paper](http://www.globaldrugpolicy.org/Issues/Vol%208%20Issue%202/Why%20Do%20People%20Use%20Medical%20Marijuana.pdf)\r\npublished in *The Journal of Global Drug Policy,* cannabis can alleviate\r\nboth acute and chronic pain. Acute pain is short-term and lasts only\r\nuntil the injury is healed, while chronic pain persists for more than\r\nthree months, such as in cancer and arthritis.\r\n\r\nInadequate Pain Relief\r\n----------------------\r\n\r\nAbout 38 million adults in America suffer from [chronic\r\npain](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2503660/), and 12\r\nmillion of them have turned to marijuana for relief, according to an ABC\r\nNews poll. The usual armamentarium of analgesics for chronic pain--from\r\nopiates to antidepressants and anticonvulsants--are no longer adequate,\r\nespecially in intractable cases such as cancer-associated pain and\r\nneuropathic pain, which is caused by damaged nerves. In a recent patient\r\nnon-adherence study by\r\n[Ameritox](http://www.ameritox.com/wp-content/uploads/Ananalysisoftheassociationbetweenmarijuanauseandpotentialnonadherence_AAPM2013.pdf),\r\nurine samples were collected from patients who were prescribed\r\nhydrocodone, one of the most frequently prescribed opioids. Of the urine\r\nsamples that tested positive for marijuana, 36.5 percent showed no\r\ntraces of the prescribed hydrocodone. \"…the data strongly suggests that\r\nmarijuana use is associated with an increased...prescription non-drug\r\nadherence,\" said Harry Leider, MD, Chief Medical Officer of Ameritox.\r\nThis non-adherence indicates that people who are using cannabis are\r\nfinding relief from their pain without opioids.\r\n\r\nHow Cannabis Helps\r\n------------------\r\n\r\nTo equip physicians with better pain management tools, researchers are\r\ntaking another look at cannabis, which has been used against pain for\r\nmore than 2,000 years. It has been discovered that the main\r\n[cannabinoids](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2430692/) in\r\nmarijuana, such as THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD\r\n(cannabidiol), are similarly structured to the body's own\r\nendocannabinoids (neurotransmitters that produce pain relief). This\r\nallows THC and CBD to bind to cannabinoid receptors in the body and\r\nelicit analgesia. The non-psychoactic CBD also helps by reducing nausea,\r\ndecreasing anxiety, suppressing seizures, and inhibiting the synthesis\r\nof pro-inflammatory proteins, making marijuana an effective\r\nanti-inflammatory agent as well.\r\n\r\nCannabinoid receptors are located in different areas of the body, but\r\nwhen it comes to neuropathic pain, those that are situated in the\r\nrostral ventromedial medulla (RVM) part of the brain play possibly the\r\nmost critical role. Scientists in Italy were able to confirm that two\r\nnon-psychoactive cannabinoids--[CBD and cannabichromene\r\n(CBC)](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20942863)--in marijuana have\r\nsuccessfully targeted the RVM in rat models. The findings confirm the\r\nviability of marijuana in treating neuropathic pain induced by cancer,\r\nHIV infection, alcoholism, diabetes, shingles and amputation, to name\r\nsome.\r\n\r\nOn the Right Track\r\n------------------\r\n\r\nIn fact,\r\n[Sativex](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2503660/), a new\r\ncannabis-derived drug that contains equal parts THC and CBD, is already\r\napproved in Canada for the treatment of neuropathic pain in multiple\r\nsclerosis and cancer. Its safety and efficacy are demonstrated in\r\nseveral clinical\r\n[trials](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2503660/),\r\nincluding for rheumatoid arthritis. Possible [adverse\r\neffects](http://sativex.co.uk/patients-and-carers/sativex/possible-side-effects/),\r\nlike tiredness and dizziness, are noted to be acceptable. Sativex has\r\nbeen granted Fast Track Designation by the [US\r\nFDA](http://www.gwpharm.com/GW%20Pharmaceuticals%20Announces%20that%20Sativex%20Receives%20Fast%20Track%20Designation%20from%20FDA%20in%20Cancer%20Pain.aspx),\r\nto expedite its development and review for the treatment of advanced\r\ncancer in patients who experience inadequate relief despite optimized\r\nopioid therapy.\r\n\r\nThe recognition of cannabis as a powerful agent in pain management is\r\nspreading throughout the country. Medical marijuana is already\r\n[legalized](http://medicalmarijuana.procon.org/view.resource.php?resourceID=000881)\r\nin 23 states and in Washington DC, while more than half a dozen are\r\npending legislation.\r\n\r\n[Photo Credit.](https://www.flickr.com/photos/59632563@N04/6104068209/in/photolist-aioWPk-9eC7PJ-oFEZpJ-q6bu3C-qggAwL-7x6SsM-aiqKtD-dMheMz-mBvTwd-mBuKpn-dMnNxS-5q6Suw-AKC4i-bA3eBS-dzXg6p-dA3JXs-jLkw1i-8yfF54-8KFUqp-dcvNUn-79EgBK-6F44ap-5JsL8a-vqKMeV-7hVpcW-giLQdY-dzXfXa-bHc2vT-7virZV-5q62LW-85fndj-muaFT5-AZLt3-dzXfRc-3ponyK-5JsL7R-pbwNUv-7RAoXW-e987Cm-8DVdmJ-pZXM5s-eH924F-9kN9Qo-baAnDK-s916o9-5HM5eC-79J7Mj-5q1FVn-nwbaT8-s8Z4gy)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/cd1df9171c5676797199dbe6188ce6d9/14b42/595f75b5f8bf086bb8187d2cd9711418.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cd1df9171c5676797199dbe6188ce6d9/f836f/595f75b5f8bf086bb8187d2cd9711418.jpg 200w,\n/static/cd1df9171c5676797199dbe6188ce6d9/2244e/595f75b5f8bf086bb8187d2cd9711418.jpg 400w,\n/static/cd1df9171c5676797199dbe6188ce6d9/14b42/595f75b5f8bf086bb8187d2cd9711418.jpg 800w,\n/static/cd1df9171c5676797199dbe6188ce6d9/47498/595f75b5f8bf086bb8187d2cd9711418.jpg 1200w,\n/static/cd1df9171c5676797199dbe6188ce6d9/a6974/595f75b5f8bf086bb8187d2cd9711418.jpg 1536w","srcWebp":"/static/cd1df9171c5676797199dbe6188ce6d9/58556/595f75b5f8bf086bb8187d2cd9711418.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/cd1df9171c5676797199dbe6188ce6d9/61e93/595f75b5f8bf086bb8187d2cd9711418.webp 200w,\n/static/cd1df9171c5676797199dbe6188ce6d9/1f5c5/595f75b5f8bf086bb8187d2cd9711418.webp 400w,\n/static/cd1df9171c5676797199dbe6188ce6d9/58556/595f75b5f8bf086bb8187d2cd9711418.webp 800w,\n/static/cd1df9171c5676797199dbe6188ce6d9/99238/595f75b5f8bf086bb8187d2cd9711418.webp 1200w,\n/static/cd1df9171c5676797199dbe6188ce6d9/d5052/595f75b5f8bf086bb8187d2cd9711418.webp 1536w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1863-markdown","title":"Medical Marijuana: A Safe Alternative for Arthritis Inflammation","slug":"medical-marijuana-a-safe-alternative-for-arthritis-inflammation","content":"Arthritis is an inflammation of the joint space that results in\r\nstiffness and pain. About 60 million people, mostly between the ages of\r\n40 and 80, suffer from some form of arthritis. While there are a number\r\nof current treatments of arthritis, they are all associated with adverse\r\nside effects.\r\n\r\nAspirin, one of the most commonly prescribed over the counter\r\nmedications for arthritis, is thought to be the cause of up to 1,000\r\ndeaths annually. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drugs like\r\nIbuprofen result in about 7,500 annual deaths and as many as 70,000\r\nhospitalizations due to complications. These methods also frequently\r\ncause [gastrointestinal\r\ncomplications](http://www.medicinenet.com/nonsteroidal_anti-inflammatory_drugs_and_ulcers/page2.htm# what_are_side_effects_of_nsaids),\r\nincluding diarrhea, stomach pain, and, in up to 15% of patients, peptic\r\nulcers.\r\n\r\nFortunately, there's an alternative.\r\n\r\nResearch Suggests Medical Marijuana can Help\r\n--------------------------------------------\r\n\r\nMedical marijuana is superior to traditional methods of easing arthritis pain for a number of\r\nreasons -- chief among them is the fact that cannabis doesn't have the\r\nhistory of deaths or side effects that aspirin or Ibuprofen do. And a\r\n[research paper](http://www.pnas.org/content/97/17/9561.full) published\r\nin the journal *Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the\r\nUnited States* found that medical marijuana is particularly effective at\r\nreducing inflammation and pain associated with arthritis.\r\n\r\nIn the paper, the researchers describe the discovery that medical\r\nmarijuana \"effectively blocked progression of arthritis\" when it was\r\ngiven to mice with induced inflammatory joint pain. Medical marijuana\r\nprevented the mice from developing any further joint damage once it was\r\nadministered.\r\n\r\nThe Science Behind Medical Marijuana\r\n------------------------------------\r\n\r\nMarijuana contains a unique set of compounds called *cannabinoids*, and\r\nthe brains of humans and other mammals have receptors that these\r\ncompounds fit into like a key into a lock. When the cannabinoids attach\r\nto these receptors -- defined as CB1 and CB2 by researchers -- they\r\ntrigger a series of beneficial effects in the body, including pain\r\nrelief, appetite stimulation, and more. Chief among these effects is the\r\nreduction of immune reactions like inflammation, which is closely\r\nassociated with many of the symptoms related to arthritis. In this way,\r\nmedical marijuana can provide relief to patients suffering from\r\narthritis.\r\n\r\nMedical marijuana can offer a safe alternative to over the counter drugs\r\nfor the following conditions with no side effects and no risk of death:\r\n\r\n-   Pain\r\n-   Arthritis symptoms\r\n-   Gout\r\n-   Osteoarthritis\r\n-   Psoriatic arthritis\r\n\r\nIt can be taken in a variety of forms: smoked, ingested orally or taken\r\nvia oil tincture under the tongue.\r\n\r\n[Photo Credit.](https://www.flickr.com/photos/cogdog/4333880052/in/photolist-7AYgxS-79xHoN-qNLYuE-akpvtR-9ATC6A-9a2MrM-bfsae8-4stzX1-bLpUV2-bu9PnJ-5SvZwM-fzJyMT-7sfnES-dHKAsG-o79Q7n-79tQJZ-dMZMsF-gWTkr-79tRt6-fjE2T9-8BYxqD-fjpS4V-c6ccef-rjV3h7-7ZC1ZE-8rBPdV-5J8cm4-pzUDys-L45Bw-dM1BEG-dPAPTH-pLE1bZ-51AC3J-pZEdUH-ejFy9p-8EdGWp-4RRkZH-dJLa6v-dB3BsV-b2Ws1V-6fJbc-4RVwtW-bqe2pG-5Dbxhf-canWEU-rsAWg8-5o4YjF-64dSKb-dxCt9J-982MPW)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/954f62d7b424107ac8f49c2898e2e823/14b42/fb5911d627d0b2f9410443f2a5df72c5.jpg","srcSet":"/static/954f62d7b424107ac8f49c2898e2e823/f836f/fb5911d627d0b2f9410443f2a5df72c5.jpg 200w,\n/static/954f62d7b424107ac8f49c2898e2e823/2244e/fb5911d627d0b2f9410443f2a5df72c5.jpg 400w,\n/static/954f62d7b424107ac8f49c2898e2e823/14b42/fb5911d627d0b2f9410443f2a5df72c5.jpg 800w,\n/static/954f62d7b424107ac8f49c2898e2e823/47498/fb5911d627d0b2f9410443f2a5df72c5.jpg 1200w,\n/static/954f62d7b424107ac8f49c2898e2e823/604fd/fb5911d627d0b2f9410443f2a5df72c5.jpg 1539w","srcWebp":"/static/954f62d7b424107ac8f49c2898e2e823/58556/fb5911d627d0b2f9410443f2a5df72c5.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/954f62d7b424107ac8f49c2898e2e823/61e93/fb5911d627d0b2f9410443f2a5df72c5.webp 200w,\n/static/954f62d7b424107ac8f49c2898e2e823/1f5c5/fb5911d627d0b2f9410443f2a5df72c5.webp 400w,\n/static/954f62d7b424107ac8f49c2898e2e823/58556/fb5911d627d0b2f9410443f2a5df72c5.webp 800w,\n/static/954f62d7b424107ac8f49c2898e2e823/99238/fb5911d627d0b2f9410443f2a5df72c5.webp 1200w,\n/static/954f62d7b424107ac8f49c2898e2e823/4c257/fb5911d627d0b2f9410443f2a5df72c5.webp 1539w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1901-markdown","title":"Medical Marijuana May Alleviate Symptoms Associated With PMS","slug":"medical-marijuana-may-alleviate-symptoms-associated-with-pms","content":"For some women, their monthly period is regularly preceded by pain and\r\nsuffering. Premenstrual syndrome can induce a gamut of unpleasant\r\nphysical symptoms, including headaches and migraines, bloating,\r\ninsomnia, fatigue and pain. Emotional changes, such as mood swings and\r\nepisodes of hostility and anger, often accompany these symptoms. While\r\nwomen may find some relief by taking medication and making lifestyle\r\nchanges, but symptoms may also be relieved with medical marijuana if\r\nlifestyle changes are not enough.\r\n\r\nPMS and Hormones\r\n----------------\r\n\r\nPMS symptoms occur one to two weeks before the start of a period and\r\nsometimes symptoms continue through the period. While the cause of PMS\r\nis not certain, hormonal fluctuations appear to play an important role.\r\nChanges in hormone levels [affect brain\r\nchemistry](http://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/premenstrual-syndrome.html),\r\nand because cannabinoids from medical cannabis [mimic the\r\nendocannabinoid\r\nsystem](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3997295/) of the\r\nbody, research indicates that medical marijuana may help combat some PMS\r\nsymptoms.\r\n\r\nHow Cannabinoids Work\r\n---------------------\r\n\r\nIn 2009, Josee Guindon and Andrea G. Hohmann of the University of\r\nGeorgia published a summary of research on the [endocannabinoid system\r\nand pain](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2834283/) in \"CNS\r\n& Neurological Disorders - Drug Targets.\" Results show that cannabinoids\r\nclosely resemble anandamide, one of the body's natural endocannabinoids\r\nthat turns on nerve receptors affecting movement, nausea and other\r\nfunctions. Because of this resemblance, researchers are studying whether\r\nthe cannabinoids in medical marijuana have similar effects in the body.\r\n\r\nThe focus of research has been on two specific cannabinoids,\r\ntetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is the cannabinoid\r\nresponsible for the feelings of euphoria marijuana users get, while CBD\r\nrelaxes the mind and body.\r\n\r\nCannabis and PMS Symptoms\r\n-------------------------\r\n\r\nThe highest concentration of cannabinoid receptors is in the parts of\r\nthe brain that affect pleasure, sensory perception, and movement. It's\r\nthought that cannabidiol (CBD), may [suppress the\r\nheadaches](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3998228/) and\r\npain of PMS, and the relaxing effect makes it useful for treating\r\ninsomnia and sleeplessness.\r\n\r\nIn studies of cancer patients, THC has been shown to [reduce\r\nnausea](http://www.ccsa.ca/Resource%20Library/CCSA-Medical-Use-of-Cannabis-2012-en.pdf)\r\nand stimulate appetite. It may also inhibit the release of serotonin, a\r\ncause of migraines. THC can also help sufferers avoid the [unpleasant\r\nside\r\neffects](http://www.webmd.com/migraines-headaches/triptans-serotonin-receptor-agonists-for-migraine-headaches)\r\nof triptans such as dizziness and an \"out of body\" sensation that some\r\npeople experience.\r\n\r\nThe American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists reports that 5\r\nto 10 percent of menstruating women [suffer significant\r\nimpairment](http://www.acog.org/-/media/NewsRoom/MediaKit.pdf) because\r\nof PMS. These women welcome more, and better, treatments for their\r\nsymptoms, and medical marijuana may just be the answer.\r\n\r\n[Photo Credit.](https://www.flickr.com/photos/99329675@N02/11064976153/in/photolist-hRLTUV-eh4rbZ-5xDYVX-fQHh5Q-5Dw2fA-7z1qxq-edHxg1-nUtsMp-nD2rEU-qUaibG-7kJjfo-cdRBV9-i3PsvD-99cTxc-aCVmwG-nS8oTs-6V1h98-5npkwX-5xJduQ-5c9njm-7jrikW-4Fjehb-8cQz3L-nQa8z1-b9AyTF-5vGYiU-5JzLsN-aRebba-37XwLx-7LRguF-a9q6sd-5Jvy7g-rHAHW1-5JvtWv-5JvrrK-7KjJFf-5JzFnE-5JvnkH-aCQ8de-5JzQgW-5JzNsU-5Jvwgp-5Jvtb8-5Jvsnx-5JvoNV-7kTvAZ-aReb5V-bzAEM9-b6gKhZ-6vhRC)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/5388b0fe03f8a047bfdbc8c10a82f617/0f3a1/e16c789931478a7856cff8430bdd5ea0.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5388b0fe03f8a047bfdbc8c10a82f617/f836f/e16c789931478a7856cff8430bdd5ea0.jpg 200w,\n/static/5388b0fe03f8a047bfdbc8c10a82f617/2244e/e16c789931478a7856cff8430bdd5ea0.jpg 400w,\n/static/5388b0fe03f8a047bfdbc8c10a82f617/0f3a1/e16c789931478a7856cff8430bdd5ea0.jpg 500w","srcWebp":"/static/5388b0fe03f8a047bfdbc8c10a82f617/e9589/e16c789931478a7856cff8430bdd5ea0.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5388b0fe03f8a047bfdbc8c10a82f617/61e93/e16c789931478a7856cff8430bdd5ea0.webp 200w,\n/static/5388b0fe03f8a047bfdbc8c10a82f617/1f5c5/e16c789931478a7856cff8430bdd5ea0.webp 400w,\n/static/5388b0fe03f8a047bfdbc8c10a82f617/e9589/e16c789931478a7856cff8430bdd5ea0.webp 500w","sizes":"(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1894-markdown","title":"A Snapshot into the Medical Marijuana Industry: A Conversation with Alicia Rose, the Founder of Herba Buena","slug":"a-snapshot-into-the-medical-marijuana-industry-a-conversation-with-alicia-rose-the-founder-of-herba-buena","content":"*What does Herba Buena do?*\n\n>HerbaBuena is a licensed California Medical Cannabis Collective providing a sophisticated, personalized approach and a curated selection of solution-based functional medicine. We differ from other dispensaries and collectives in a few ways. First and foremost we make and carry only the finest organic and artisan crafted medicine which has been tested for purity, potency and impact. We offer a hands on approach and private consultations for all our patients and are dedicated to helping them find the medicine and delivery methods that suit them best. We also offer our members the chance to gather and experience the medicine in a guided, education setting through our series of [HerbaBuena Social Club events](http://herbabuena.com/the-social-club/).\n\n\n*What gave you the idea for Herba Buena?*\n\n>Over the last few years it started to become clear that my demographic was being underserved in this new frontier of cannabis. Rather than looking for more potent medicine, I was looking for a refined, sophisticated experience and products that allowed me to be more present and functional in my daily life, rather than less. Because I’m coming from the high-end wine industry I knew that there were many folks out there just like me, looking for the same high-quality, intentionally made products and experiences – including parents and professionals. There are so many parallels between the artisan wine world, and that of cannabis, it was a natural progression.\n\n\n*What drew you to medical marijuana as a cure for ailments?*\n\n>Cannabis has so many incredible therapeutic properties I wanted to create products that were specifically oriented around a particular need or symptom. The endocannabinoid system in our bodies actually helps to regulate many of the other body systems and offers an array of harmonizing and balancing effects – especially when utilized in its whole herb state. In many ways it could be considered the world’s most powerful adaptagen as it helps to balance the body on the physical, emotional and even spiritual level.\n
Cannabis is one of the most complex plants in terms of active components which makes it a medicine chest in its own right. Each component has its own healing properties and acts on different parts of the body. By isolating these components we’re able to treat various ailments. That said, maintaining a balance of the whole plant constituents allows each to be most effective.\n\n\n*Herba Buena promotes its organic, winery like approach to medical marijuana. How do you assure a high quality in your products?*\n\n>Just like a winery, we go out and interact directly with the people growing the raw plant material. We have in-depth discussions with all of our producers involved in our medical marijuana plants and processing, so we can make sure all qualities of our products are up to our standards.  We tour the farms where are products are grown to assure the nutrients that are being used with their plants to assure they are in alignment with what would meet organic standards or better. \n \n\n*How has being a parent shaped your journey in the medical marijuana industry*\n\n>Because I am a parent its critical for me to find and develop products that allow me to be present and functional and to create my own experience, so potency and doses need to be exact. I strive to create products that offer all the benefits of cannabis, like managing anxiety or pain, without having to get super stoned or “checked out”.\nI am also very serious about creating and carrying products that don’t appeal to kids. I think it’s dangerous and unconscionable that so many edible cannabis products are being made to look like treats  – like candy, cookies and sweet drinks – without any child safety measures in place, like special packaging and locking caps. Because of this we currently we only sell one edible product, a chocolate bar which is high in CBD and low in THC, and it is packaged discreetly so it looks less like a candy bar. We’re currently seeking out vendors who are making special, artisan edibles in child proof packaging.\nAs a last step we do everything we can to educate our members about treating their medical marijuana products like they would any other medicine and keep it out of reach of children at all costs.\n\n \n*Do you create products with particular medical conditions in mind?*\n\n>Absolutely, every HerbaBuena product is created with a purpose in mind. For example, Lullaby is one of our elixirs made to aid in sleep, so it’s produced with cannabis strains which are known for aiding in relaxation, and we even extract the herbs in a way to amplify the desired effect. We then blend the cannabis extract with other organic, critically extracted herbs, along with gemstone and flower essences which aid in relaxation and sleep.  Our Rock & Roll elixir was created to ease pain and reduce anxiety, while helping to elevate mood and energy, and increase the feeling of connected creativity. Our topical Body Balm product is specifically formulated to reduce inflammation and ease pain.\n \n\n*How do you distribute your products? Do you sell at dispensaries or directly to your customers?*\n\n>At the moment we sell our HerbaBuena products directly to our members.  As our products have gained popularity, we are working on a plan to expand to being able to sell to other dispensaries and collectives as well. \n \n\n*Do you see the medical marijuana industry merging with traditional pharmaceuticals or do you see them as always remaining as separate entities?*\n\n>I hope the medical industry becomes more involved with the medical marijuana industry because I think it would allow us more access to good research and ways in which to better measure potency and impact of these products. On the other hand, I hope if the FDA does get involved that it doesn't over regulate what is a perfect medicinal plant.  If it becomes over regulated the plant could simply be stripped apart into various compounds instead of retaining the positive benefits of the whole plant. Currently, we work with various doctors with specialty practices, including oncologists, in order to formulate products and regimens which specifically fit their patient’s needs.  \n \n\n*What change, if any, do you see as necessary for the medical marijuana industry to move forward?*\n\n>I think there is already a trend that is moving toward functional and solution-based medicine. To me that is the most important part, as well as making sure the medicine is clean. Another thing we like to advocate is micro dosing, taking small amounts of medicine over more regular intervals to keep the body regulated rather than taking larger doses all at once.\n \n\n*Do you have any advice or tips for first time medical marijuana users?*\n\n>We advise that people who are new to cannabis stay away from edibles because they are unpredictable in potency and effect. We recommend that new users start with our elixirs or by vaporizing whole flower (with a dry herb vaporizer) or with CO2 cartridge vapor pens because the intake can be easily measured. Often we’ll advise a particular strain that is higher in CBD and lower in THC to start as well. Topical treatments are also great for novices because they’re particularly effective in treating pain directly, often without an overt psychoactive effect. \n \n\n*How do you see Herba Buena staying current in the fast changing industry of medical marijuana?*\n\n>I feel that, in many ways, we’re setting the trend with sun grown, organic flowers being the most important and sough after.  Micro-dosing is also a relatively new idea that we’ve been promoting with our members and in the creation of our products since the beginning.  We have a lot of exciting plans moving forward and are excited about being thought leaders in the industry by brining the concepts of holistic and functional medicine into everything we do, and coupling that with the organic, artisan and high-end approach I’ve learned from the wine industry. In fact, we’re in the midst of purchasing our own land which will allow us to be in complete control of every aspect of our products from farming the specific strains to controlling pruning, harvesting, curing and production all the way through to the end product. It’s much like a winery for medical marijuana and the best way to create the finest products, without compromise through every step of the process.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.7094017094017093,"src":"/static/dcac2c05261dcc6c309610b6204c0b86/14b42/98972f7b276e62cb0b727c4afc04170b.jpg","srcSet":"/static/dcac2c05261dcc6c309610b6204c0b86/f836f/98972f7b276e62cb0b727c4afc04170b.jpg 200w,\n/static/dcac2c05261dcc6c309610b6204c0b86/2244e/98972f7b276e62cb0b727c4afc04170b.jpg 400w,\n/static/dcac2c05261dcc6c309610b6204c0b86/14b42/98972f7b276e62cb0b727c4afc04170b.jpg 800w,\n/static/dcac2c05261dcc6c309610b6204c0b86/47498/98972f7b276e62cb0b727c4afc04170b.jpg 1200w,\n/static/dcac2c05261dcc6c309610b6204c0b86/0c4a8/98972f7b276e62cb0b727c4afc04170b.jpg 1333w","srcWebp":"/static/dcac2c05261dcc6c309610b6204c0b86/58556/98972f7b276e62cb0b727c4afc04170b.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/dcac2c05261dcc6c309610b6204c0b86/61e93/98972f7b276e62cb0b727c4afc04170b.webp 200w,\n/static/dcac2c05261dcc6c309610b6204c0b86/1f5c5/98972f7b276e62cb0b727c4afc04170b.webp 400w,\n/static/dcac2c05261dcc6c309610b6204c0b86/58556/98972f7b276e62cb0b727c4afc04170b.webp 800w,\n/static/dcac2c05261dcc6c309610b6204c0b86/99238/98972f7b276e62cb0b727c4afc04170b.webp 1200w,\n/static/dcac2c05261dcc6c309610b6204c0b86/149df/98972f7b276e62cb0b727c4afc04170b.webp 1333w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1892-markdown","title":"Taking Queues From the Past: Medical Marijuana can Provide Migraine Relief","slug":"taking-queues-from-the-past-medical-marijuana-can-provide-migraine-relief","content":"A migraine is an excruciating type of headache that is usually\r\naccompanied by other symptoms, such as extreme light sensitivity,\r\nnausea, and even vomiting. Some migraines are so severe that they can\r\ncause people to completely halt their daily lives. Medical marijuana, or\r\ncannabis, might be a solution for many migraine sufferers.\r\n\r\nStatistics from the [Migraine Research\r\nFoundation](http://www.migraineresearchfoundation.org/fact-sheet.html)\r\nestimate that more than 10% of the population suffers from migraines,\r\nmaking it one of the top 20 debilitating medical conditions in the\r\nworld. According to the Migraine Research Foundation, someone in the\r\nUnited States goes to the emergency room every 10 seconds as a result of\r\nmigraine, with more than 90% of those suffering from the condition\r\nunable to function in a normal capacity.\r\n\r\r\n\r\nThe use of medical marijuana for migraines is not a new concept. A 1998\r\n[study](http://www.maps.org/research-archive/mmj/russo_98_migraine_pain.pdf)\r\nby the neurology department of the Western Montana Clinic explains that\r\ncannabis has been used for centuries to manage the effects of migraines.\r\nAncient Greek, Chinese, Indian, Roman, and Egyptian literature all make\r\nreference to cannabis's efficacy for headaches, and it was the remedy of\r\nchoice for migraine treatment well into the mid-twentieth century.\r\n\r\nTension headaches are the most\r\n[common](http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000797.htm)\r\nkind of headache that are associated with migraines. They can be\r\ntriggered by fatigue, flu, alcohol use, eye strain, emotional stress and\r\nanxiety, insomnia, or excessive smoking. This type of headache is the\r\nresult of the tightening of muscles in the neck and scalp, and medical\r\nmarijuana, which helps in the relaxation of these muscles, can help\r\nmanage the headache.\r\n\r\nThe use of cannabis may also help reduce the frequency of headaches\r\nsince it can act as a prophylaxis or preventive measure. Usually, those\r\nwho suffer from migraines have very little recourse for the treatment of\r\nthis condition. Available medications often have unpleasant side effects\r\nwhich tend to cancel out any perceived benefits.\r\n\r\nCannabis acts as an analgesic and can help in the reduction of the pain\r\nfrom migraines. The reduction of endocannabinoids is suspected to be an\r\nunderlying reason for migraines. A migraine trigger sets off a chemical\r\nreaction in the brain, causing the release of endocannabinoids to\r\nmaintain balance. In individuals where this component is lacking, a\r\ndilation of blood vessels will result in intense migraine pain, which\r\nmay explain the therapeutic benefits of cannabis in managing migraine.\r\n\r\n[Photo Credit.](https://www.flickr.com/photos/9286726@N03/8128109002)\r\n\r\n**References:**\r\n\r\nRusso, E. (n.d.). Cannabis for migraine treatment: The once and future\r\nprescription? An historical and scientific review. Retrieved June 26,\r\n2015, from\r\n[http://www.maps.org/research-archive/mmj/russo\\_98\\_migraine\\_pain.pdf](http://www.maps.org/research-archive/mmj/russo_98_migraine_pain.pdf)\r\n\r\nTension headache: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. (n.d.). Retrieved\r\nJune 26, 2015, from\r\n[http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000797.htm](http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000797.htm)\r\n\r\nMarijuana For Migraines. (n.d.). Retrieved June 26, 2015, from\r\n[https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/your-brain-food/201309/marijuana-migraines](https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/your-brain-food/201309/marijuana-migraines)\r\n\r\nSmith, S., & Wagner, M. (n.d.). Clinical endocannabinoid deficiency\r\n(CECD) revisited: Can this concept explain the therapeutic benefits of\r\ncannabis in migraine, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome and other\r\ntreatment-resistant conditions? Retrieved June 27, 2015, from\r\nhttp://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24977967","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/53f24c0adc1e1488ce02ce4370e9eae3/14b42/8e0f7b95dc4ba3cef29ff2c2b023cbf4.jpg","srcSet":"/static/53f24c0adc1e1488ce02ce4370e9eae3/f836f/8e0f7b95dc4ba3cef29ff2c2b023cbf4.jpg 200w,\n/static/53f24c0adc1e1488ce02ce4370e9eae3/2244e/8e0f7b95dc4ba3cef29ff2c2b023cbf4.jpg 400w,\n/static/53f24c0adc1e1488ce02ce4370e9eae3/14b42/8e0f7b95dc4ba3cef29ff2c2b023cbf4.jpg 800w,\n/static/53f24c0adc1e1488ce02ce4370e9eae3/16310/8e0f7b95dc4ba3cef29ff2c2b023cbf4.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/53f24c0adc1e1488ce02ce4370e9eae3/58556/8e0f7b95dc4ba3cef29ff2c2b023cbf4.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/53f24c0adc1e1488ce02ce4370e9eae3/61e93/8e0f7b95dc4ba3cef29ff2c2b023cbf4.webp 200w,\n/static/53f24c0adc1e1488ce02ce4370e9eae3/1f5c5/8e0f7b95dc4ba3cef29ff2c2b023cbf4.webp 400w,\n/static/53f24c0adc1e1488ce02ce4370e9eae3/58556/8e0f7b95dc4ba3cef29ff2c2b023cbf4.webp 800w,\n/static/53f24c0adc1e1488ce02ce4370e9eae3/cc834/8e0f7b95dc4ba3cef29ff2c2b023cbf4.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1875-markdown","title":"The New Way to Ease Crohn's Symptoms: Medical Marijuana","slug":"the-new-way-to-ease-crohns-symptoms-medical-marijuana","content":"Crohn's Disease is an autoimmune disease that results in chronic\r\ninflammation of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It generally affects\r\nthe beginning of the large intestine and the lower section of the small\r\nbowel. Symptoms of Crohn's Disease include persistent diarrhea,\r\nabdominal pain and intestinal obstruction, occasionally combined with\r\nrectal bleeding. Some two-thirds of patients with Crohn's will require\r\nsurgery at some point during their lifetime to reduce their symptoms.\r\n\r\nNew Research Suggests Medical Marijuana Can Help\r\n------------------------------------------------\r\n\r\nDr. Jeffrey Hergenrather recently [published research in the journal\r\nClinical Gastroenterology and\r\nHepatology](http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1542356513006046)\r\nthat suggests that medical marijuana may offer relief to certain\r\npatients with Crohn's disease. Because patients with Crohn's or\r\nirritable bowel disease (IBD) have high levels of endocannabinoid\r\nreceptors in their GI tract, Hergenrather wondered if the cannabinoids\r\nin marijuana could reduce their inflammation.\r\n\r\nIn his study, published in 2013, Hergenrather found that 10 out of 11\r\npatients who were treated with medical marijuana had \"significant\r\nreduction in symptoms.\" Five of those patients experienced a complete\r\nremission of the disease.\r\n\r\n\"This has a huge effect on patients with Crohn's disease,\" said\r\nHergenrather in [an interview\r\nwith](http://www.beyondthc.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Hergenrather-CME.pdf)\r\n*[O'Shaugnessy's](http://www.beyondthc.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Hergenrather-CME.pdf)*.\r\nHe originally conceived of the study in 2000 when he compared notes with\r\nother clinicians about the effects medical marijuana was having on their\r\npatients. \"We noticed right off that people were saying cannabis was\r\nworking for Crohn's Disease,\" he says.\r\n\r\nThe Science Behind the Cure\r\n---------------------------\r\n\r\nCannabis acts on receptors in the brain called CB1 and CB2, which are\r\nprotein molecules that change their shape when they encounter a chemical\r\nstimulus. Stimulation of CB1 and CB2 receptors causes changes in brain\r\nand body function. CB1 and CB2 are receptors that change their shape when\r\nthey encounter cannabinoids like THC. This process occurs in the GI\r\ntract when medical marijuana is used. Due to the fact that both CB1 and\r\nCB2 cannabinoid receptors are found in the digestive system, medical\r\nmarijuana is particularly promising as a treatment regimen for patients\r\nwith digestive disorders. When medical marijuana activates CB1 receptors\r\nintestinal movement is decreased, which can potentially help treat\r\npersistent diarrhea. When CB2 cannabinoid receptors are activated by\r\nmedical marijuana, they decrease the production of the immune cells\r\nresponsible for inflammation. Additionally, THC has been shown to help\r\nreduce fluid leakage through the lining of the GI tract.\r\n\r\nWhile edibles are not always ideal for patients with Crohn's, due to the\r\nsensitivity of their stomachs, they are the fastest way to get\r\ncannabinoids to the receptors in the GI tract. Alternative delivery\r\nmethods patients with Crohn's can use are sublingual oils, vaporization,\r\nand smoking.\r\n\r\n[Photo Credit.](https://www.flickr.com/photos/36655009@N05/4369627924)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAANABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAAAAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIBBAX/xAAVAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAf/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABx3qvCkFf/8QAGRAAAwADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIQERIh/9oACAEBAAEFAh0uFu2Z/8QAFBEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEP/aAAgBAwEBPwE//8QAFBEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEP/aAAgBAgEBPwE//8QAFxAAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIhIP/aAAgBAQAGPwKsTP8A/8QAGxAAAQQDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQAQESExQVH/2gAIAQEAAT8hOKgLZnChjwb/2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEC8P/8QAFREBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEBH/2gAIAQMBAT8Qp//EABURAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAR/9oACAECAQE/EIf/xAAcEAADAAIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARExUSFBcZH/2gAIAQEAAT8QmH98yKtaDNr2Ony/gnHUSYrwr2f/2Q==","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/548f73f9aece5367b3ec07e277818697/14b42/9140628c4001a1de75a10cfd9ea3694b.jpg","srcSet":"/static/548f73f9aece5367b3ec07e277818697/f836f/9140628c4001a1de75a10cfd9ea3694b.jpg 200w,\n/static/548f73f9aece5367b3ec07e277818697/2244e/9140628c4001a1de75a10cfd9ea3694b.jpg 400w,\n/static/548f73f9aece5367b3ec07e277818697/14b42/9140628c4001a1de75a10cfd9ea3694b.jpg 800w,\n/static/548f73f9aece5367b3ec07e277818697/16310/9140628c4001a1de75a10cfd9ea3694b.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/548f73f9aece5367b3ec07e277818697/58556/9140628c4001a1de75a10cfd9ea3694b.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/548f73f9aece5367b3ec07e277818697/61e93/9140628c4001a1de75a10cfd9ea3694b.webp 200w,\n/static/548f73f9aece5367b3ec07e277818697/1f5c5/9140628c4001a1de75a10cfd9ea3694b.webp 400w,\n/static/548f73f9aece5367b3ec07e277818697/58556/9140628c4001a1de75a10cfd9ea3694b.webp 800w,\n/static/548f73f9aece5367b3ec07e277818697/cc834/9140628c4001a1de75a10cfd9ea3694b.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1874-markdown","title":"Migraines: How I Got off Pain Meds & Found Relief With Cannabis","slug":"migraines-how-i-got-off-pain-meds-and-found-relief-with-cannabis","content":"Have you ever considered using cannabidiol (CBD) for chronic pain relief? I didn’t. Sure, I read some stuff in the news about marijuana’s awesome healing properties, but to be honest I always thought that it was a bunch of BS. I pictured myself smoking a big spliff, getting really paranoid, feeling out of my head and still having a seriously bad migraine. Oh, and going to bed and not sleeping because I’m spinning and, did I say it before, so incredibly PARANOID. Not my happy place. \n\nMy perception of medical marijuana was way off base. There are multiple different types of cannabinoids within the cannabis plant, and CBD is almost exclusively used for medical relief. CBD, unlike its twin sister-from-a-different-mister tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), doesn’t get people high or stoned. Based on a personal friend’s recommendation, I ended up trying CBD for migraine pain relief, and to my great surprise, it worked.\n\nIf this is of interest to you, then you should read on, because this is my story of how I got off Vicodin and started using CBD to manage chronic pain caused by crazy, intense migraines.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)  \n\n### More Than 2 Dozen Years of Intense Migraine Symptoms\n\nI’ve had migraine headaches since I was 14. Head-splitting, painful whoppers that can leave me in bed for days. The first time I had a migraine, I was swimming a 100-meter race on the high school swim team. I nearly won (almost), but when I got out of the pool, I actually fell to the ground. I was struck by migraine lightning that left me blinded, vomiting and out of my head for the next 12 hours. That was the start of it all.\n\nFor the last 25 or so years, it’s been much the same, although I learned that hormonal spikes most often cause migraines along with stress, diet, lack of exercise as well as other triggers. Getting pregnant? A really bad idea if you get hormonal migraines. Several pregnancies later, I found my headaches were as bad, if not worse, than in adolescence. So was my mood.\n\nWhen you feel chronic pain this badly, I believe most people are willing to do just about anything to get pain relief (I’m included in that group). This led me to try out a barrage of drugs to find a cure (by the way, there isn’t one unless you consider cutting off your head) and/or something that might provide significant pain relief.\n\nRELATED: [BEST CBD STRAINS FOR MIGRAINES](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/57f283d9e4b4f6000a8dba0e/the-best-cbd-marijuana-strains-for-migraines)\n\n### Treating My Migraines With Imitrex & Vicodin\n\nYoga, Pilates and CrossFit helped me. Other than drugs, adding more exercise to my weekly routine and making a significant change in my diet, including dropping gluten and soy, helped alleviate the worst kinds of migraine headaches. That is semi code for the migraines that blind you and give you the dreaded-dotted-panic-attack-inducing aura. That said, no matter what changes I made, a migraine still seemed to rear its ugly head. Enter migraine treatment with narcotics and heavy-duty migraine medications such as Imitrex.\n\nFor the most part, I found the migraine meds like Imitrex too debilitating. I ended up foggy, drooling and practically comatose in bed, unable to do much, but still with a nagging pain in the gulliver. Vicodin is a combination of the narcotic hydrocodone and non-narcotic pain reliever acetaminophen. On a monthly basis, I found that taking Vicodin at the onset of a migraine headache helped to both stop it from getting worse while also giving significant pain relief with minor side effects.\n\nFinding pain relief with Vicodon was fantastic, but it also had a significant downside. I started snacking Vicodin on a monthly basis —roughly in the neighborhood of two to eight pills per month. It’s important to note that the DEA now classes Vicodin as a Schedule 2 drug, which means that it has a high potential to be abused and for people to become dependent on it. In August of 2014, the DEA changed the regulations around Vicodin and moved it into the same class as Oxycontin, Percocet and Codeine. As a result, physicians have been far more careful when prescribing Vicodin. Honestly, it’s understandable as the doctors now need to watch their own backs based on the new DEA regulation.\n\nLaws changed around Vicodin due to the fact that some seven million Americans seem to adore it as well as other prescription meds; they’re addicted to them and love to Rush Limbaugh (yes, that’s a gross, fat verb I coined). Fortunately, I never had an issue with Vicodin addiction, but it really bothered me that I was so heavily reliant on a narcotic. It seemed so, well, dependent. It was also far less convenient trying to get a prescription as well.\n\n### My Introduction to Migraine Treatment With CBD\n\nAbout a year ago, a friend suggested that I try a CBD mouth spray for my headaches. I was all ears, as she told me that it not only provided her with pain relief, but she was able to fully function; it didn’t make her tired, and she found it a more natural way to medicate. It had seriously never occurred to me that people weren’t necessarily smoking their medicine nor were they getting high.\n\nCBD and THC are two of the most prevalent compounds found in cannabis. There are over 60 other compounds that also make up the marijuana plant. THC is the psychoactive component and is what gets people high, which for some is great.\n\nCBD, on the other hand, is non-psychoactive and does not affect our CB1 brain receptors in the same way as THC. Both THC and CBD have many of the same medical advantages, but each person reacts differently. For me, THC is like kryptonite. My system simply can’t handle it; I short circuit.\n\n### Get to Know CBD\n\nI was never much into chemistry, but the difference with CBD from THC is that THC is perfectly shaped to bind to our CB1 receptor, whereas CBD doesn’t—hence no psychoactive effects. CBD is now finally coming into the limelight due to its remarkable properties. CBD has been shown to:\n\n* relieve pain\n* fight cancer\n* prevent diabetic neuropathy\n* protect nerves\n* reduce nausea and vomiting\n* suppress seizures\n* combat anxiety \n* alleviate inflammation in the body\n\nAnd the list goes on and on. This is me screaming from the top of my work desk, IT ALSO STOPPED THE PAIN CAUSED BY MY MIGRAINES with zero gnarly side effects!\n\nRELATED: [TOP 6 WAYS TO CONSUME CBD](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/57b2182407f595000bf74dd3/6-top-ways-to-consume-cbd)\n\nAnother interesting thing to note about CBD is its unique ability to work in conjunction with THC. CBD is able to stop the negative effects that may be felt from ingesting too much THC. In effect, CBD can reduce any overly intense psychoactivity caused by THC—so if your little brother smokes too much cannabis and locks himself in the broom closet, you give him CBD. It is like Freeze Miser meeting Heat Miser, and Mother Nature stopping the argument so Christmas can go on (excuse the cult TV special cultural reference). \n\nAs a result, you’ll see many products that use ratios of 1:1 CBD to THC, or always greater CBD to THC ratios. The ratio of THC to CBD is very important for the relief you want to feel and your tolerance for the psychoactivity inherent to THC.\n\nAll that said, I’ll leave the topic of ratios and dosage for another posting. If you’re like me, and have a highly negative sensitivity to THC, talk to your doctor as well as a reputable dispensary before buying and trying any new product. If you’re in the San Francisco area or Las Vegas, I highly recommend visiting [The Apothecarium](https://apothecarium.com) as the staff is friendly and very knowledgeable and can readily help with recommendations.\n\nSo to wrap it up, if CBD worked for me, it may also work for you. This story is one of the reasons we started HelloMD. We saw there was a great need for people to gain access to medical cards so they might be able to purchase medical marijuana legally. We advocate for people to try medicinal marijuana for medical needs whether they be small or large, because in our opinion it offers a viable, relatively safe medical alternative to the drugs developed by Big Pharma.\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.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3986013986013985,"src":"/static/59d3e838ee0c312c66bd8871f35811a6/14b42/e8eb9f798fc789c6488e6fde7d6f0f1c.jpg","srcSet":"/static/59d3e838ee0c312c66bd8871f35811a6/f836f/e8eb9f798fc789c6488e6fde7d6f0f1c.jpg 200w,\n/static/59d3e838ee0c312c66bd8871f35811a6/2244e/e8eb9f798fc789c6488e6fde7d6f0f1c.jpg 400w,\n/static/59d3e838ee0c312c66bd8871f35811a6/14b42/e8eb9f798fc789c6488e6fde7d6f0f1c.jpg 800w,\n/static/59d3e838ee0c312c66bd8871f35811a6/16310/e8eb9f798fc789c6488e6fde7d6f0f1c.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/59d3e838ee0c312c66bd8871f35811a6/58556/e8eb9f798fc789c6488e6fde7d6f0f1c.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/59d3e838ee0c312c66bd8871f35811a6/61e93/e8eb9f798fc789c6488e6fde7d6f0f1c.webp 200w,\n/static/59d3e838ee0c312c66bd8871f35811a6/1f5c5/e8eb9f798fc789c6488e6fde7d6f0f1c.webp 400w,\n/static/59d3e838ee0c312c66bd8871f35811a6/58556/e8eb9f798fc789c6488e6fde7d6f0f1c.webp 800w,\n/static/59d3e838ee0c312c66bd8871f35811a6/cc834/e8eb9f798fc789c6488e6fde7d6f0f1c.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1873-markdown","title":"Medical Marijuana Roll Out Flops in Illinois, is the Problem Interest or Access?","slug":"medical-marijuana-roll-out-flops-in-illinois-is-the-problem-interest-or-access","content":"A bill to allow medical marijuana was signed in the state of Illinois in 2013.  Though the program is not yet operational in the state, problems have been piling up for the medical marijuana market in Illinois.  Over 40 conditions qualify under the Illinois state law, including Cancer, Crohn's Disease, and Alzheimer's, and patients who qualify are allowed to buy up to two and a half ounces of cannabis for every 14 days. In the first 9 months of roll out, only 2,500 patients have applied and been accepted for medical marijuana cards.  There was an initial estimate of about 75,000 people expected to be signed up for the program within the first year.  Illinois has a particularly extensive process to get approved for medical marijuana cards including fees, background checks, doctors visits, finger printing, and a paper application.  No online alternatives or applications are available in Illinois for the medical marijuana industry.  One immediate assumption for the lack of customers in the medical marijuana industry in Illinois is the delayed ability of people to be able to receive medical marijuana in state.  \r\n\r\nToday, in 2015, patients who have fought so hard to gain the ability to access medical marijuana for their conditions are still not able to access their medicine. 18 cultivation and 52 dispensary licenses, however, were handed out in February.  The limited number left many people eager to be a part of the new industry out in the dust, but the most pressing issue is the lack of medical marijuana available in the state to date. Illinois residents, who have already been approved for the medical marijuana plan, still are not able to bring medical marijuana in from other states either.  Many of the businesses are worried about being able to open successfully, now that the amount of customers is still so low. The lack of patients may lead to a delay or thinning in the roll out of actual dispensaries in the area. \r\n\r\nIllinois, unlike many other states who offer medical marijuana, requires people to qualify under a specific condition, rather than being allowed to use medical marijuana for ailments such as chronic pain or generalized anxiety.  Both pain and anxiety are two of the oldest uses for medical marijuana.  Medical marijuana has been used across the Middle East and Asia to, “destroy anxiety and bring joy”.  Marijuana was also the earliest general anesthetic used during surgical procedures and was used to relieve general pain.  The Illinois restrictions which do not allow people to be prescribed for general issues cuts off access for some of the people who could greatly benefit from the use of medical marijuana.  In the case of many conditions, medical marijuana provides an alternative to harsh pharmaceuticals.  Many traditional prescription medications such as opioids and medications used to treat mental disorders can have harsh side effects, including particular medications with high levels of dependence and addictive qualities. In states where medical marijuana has been approved, there has be a 25% decrease in overdoses on opioids. There has been talk, however, of expanding the list of qualifying medical conditions. \r\n\r\nSince the medical marijuana industry is new across the country, and particularly in the state of Illinois, there are also trepidations by patients and doctors to prescribe and take medical marijuana.  In Illinois, people must receive a prescription from their regular treatment doctor.  In many other states, people can seek medical marijuana licenses from any doctor.  Many physicians in Illinois are not comfortable with prescribing medical marijuana because they do not know much about it.  Some patients, also, do not feel comfortable requesting it from their doctors due to stigma or judgement.  Due to some doctors inclinations against medical marijuana in Illinois, patients do not always feel as if they have a safe space to express their ideas of trying medical marijuana to help with their ailments.  The stigma against medical marijuana is decreasing, but many people want a safe space to feel like they can express their desires to try it. \r\n\r\nSome people, whether restricted by resources, stigma, or mobility, may not have the ability to schedule doctors office visits.  Programs running in other states, like HelloMD in California, allow patients to speak to doctors online from the comfort of their own home.  These doctors are also more well versed in the uses and products in the medical marijuana industry, so they are great resources for patients who are new to using medical marijuana.  HelloMD, and programs like it, give all patients the tools they need to be able to fully access the benefits of medical marijuana.  \r\n\r\nOne of the largest issues that patients face in the medical marijuana roll out is access to the products they need. States, in large numbers, are recognizing marijuana’s medical purpose in helping treat a wide range of conditions. In Illinois, patients fought hard to gain the access to medical marijuana, but still are not able to get it the products they need. It is important that as states move foreword with medical marijuana, they recognize all of the steps that are needed to implement a successful medical cannabis program within their borders.  Producers must be established in the state and distribution plans should be put in to place so when patients are granted access to medical marijuana, they are actually able to use it. The restriction on qualifying conditions also leaves many people who could benefit from medical marijuana from accessing it.  The quick expansion of medical marijuana across the United States has begun to open the door for access, but much can be done to provide people with the medical products they really need.\r\n\r\n[photo source](https://www.flickr.com/photos/francisco_osorio/8228710532/in/photolist-dx9hXw-cc59Sw-6y5h3e-cJxAEY-9zPHvt-9866ZQ-cJorC1-8VENMy-d2Tn1f-2KwNTS-h1P3a4-9biVkj-hjj2fD-7bEsuE-e3vXtG-4rhCSh-d9LUFW-xXdZu-7x6Sq6-5SVGHV-xXebu-e6ozvb-79J7Eb-aBnCE3-e2UGzB-pcuLz-d2TmHm-cJorDA-79EgEe-aioWPk-mBvTwd-9eC7PJ-mBuKpn-5q6Suw-q6bu3C-7xaEZb-7x6SsM-8uKeGF-9tZy8P-aiqKtD-hj6tRi-kpRPx1-dMheMz-oFEZpJ-dMnNxS-qggAwL-AKC4i-bA3eBS-dzXg6p-dA3JXs)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/b8a88d97e3d968f8b102b815e40aa436/14b42/0cab0b367f63b895b20b6a9058986245.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b8a88d97e3d968f8b102b815e40aa436/f836f/0cab0b367f63b895b20b6a9058986245.jpg 200w,\n/static/b8a88d97e3d968f8b102b815e40aa436/2244e/0cab0b367f63b895b20b6a9058986245.jpg 400w,\n/static/b8a88d97e3d968f8b102b815e40aa436/14b42/0cab0b367f63b895b20b6a9058986245.jpg 800w,\n/static/b8a88d97e3d968f8b102b815e40aa436/16310/0cab0b367f63b895b20b6a9058986245.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/b8a88d97e3d968f8b102b815e40aa436/58556/0cab0b367f63b895b20b6a9058986245.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b8a88d97e3d968f8b102b815e40aa436/61e93/0cab0b367f63b895b20b6a9058986245.webp 200w,\n/static/b8a88d97e3d968f8b102b815e40aa436/1f5c5/0cab0b367f63b895b20b6a9058986245.webp 400w,\n/static/b8a88d97e3d968f8b102b815e40aa436/58556/0cab0b367f63b895b20b6a9058986245.webp 800w,\n/static/b8a88d97e3d968f8b102b815e40aa436/cc834/0cab0b367f63b895b20b6a9058986245.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1877-markdown","title":"Medical Marijuana May Reduce Opioid Use for Back Pain Sufferers","slug":"medical-marijuana-may-reduce-opioid-use-for-back-pain-sufferers","content":"Pain can be debilitating. More than [half of Americans say they live with chronic or recurring pain](http://www.painmed.org/patientcenter/cost-of-pain-to-businesses/), and general back pain—lower back pain, back spasms and/or sciatica—is one of the most common reasons people see a doctor. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en) \n\nBack pain can be defined as either acute, in which the patient recovers in six to eight weeks, or chronic, when someone experiences episodes of acute pain three or more times a year. Both chronic and acute back pain can interfere with everyday activities such as walking, sitting and sleeping. Both often result in missed days of work—chronic pain is one of the leading causes of disability claims. \n\n### Over-the-Counter & Prescription Back Pain Medication\n\nNearly half of those with back pain have suffered some type of trauma, but medicine still has little to offer as a solution. The most common treatments are over-the-counter medications, particularly non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen and aspirin. Unfortunately, NSAIDs can have side effects such as nausea, ulcers and stomach upset. Plus, they're often not strong enough to combat serious pain.\nWhen NSAIDs aren’t enough, doctors may prescribe opioids, such as hydrocodone, to address the pain. [Long-term opioid use is problematic—it can lead to addiction as well as anxiety, depression, insomnia and other problems](https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/guide/narcotic-pain-medications#2). Unfortunately, for those with serious pain, there have been few other options available. This is changing though with the legalization of medical marijuana in many states.\n\n### Cannabis Is Safer Than Opioids & Just as Effective\n\nResearchers have known since the 1970s that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a cannabinoid found in marijuana, is effective for many types of pain. And even recent studies show that [THC reduces pain and improves sleep without any serious adverse effects](http://www.cmaj.ca/content/182/14/E694.full.pdf). However, due to cannabis’s classification as a Schedule 1 drug, research has been stifled. But with the march towards legalizing medical marijuana, research has picked up and the general takeaway is that marijuana is extremely effective for reducing pain.\n\nRELATED: [BEST MARIJUANA STRAINS FOR BACK PAIN](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/57e1803d16ce30000b06ba0a/top-6-marijuana-strains-for-back-pain) \n\nCannabis appears to be as effective as—if not more effective than—routinely prescribed opioids—but without the side effects. A 2013 study by the University of Colorado found that nearly 90% of participants gained relief from their back pain with the use of cannabis, and 81% said it was effective as traditional painkillers. A study published this year by the drug company Ameritox concluded that 36% of marijuana users who also had a prescription for hydrocodone failed to take it, compared to only 27% of non-marijuana users. While it decried this failure as \"medication non-compliance,\" the positive point is that [36% of cannabis users no longer felt the need to take an opioid drug to relieve their pain](http://www.ameritox.com/wp-content/uploads/Ananalysisoftheassociationbetweenmarijuanauseandpotentialnonadherence_AAPM2013.pdf).\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":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/7e34c68877ff96cc3e145c1805ba07f4/14b42/f8b895d100570311a6c6ad333646dd9b.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7e34c68877ff96cc3e145c1805ba07f4/f836f/f8b895d100570311a6c6ad333646dd9b.jpg 200w,\n/static/7e34c68877ff96cc3e145c1805ba07f4/2244e/f8b895d100570311a6c6ad333646dd9b.jpg 400w,\n/static/7e34c68877ff96cc3e145c1805ba07f4/14b42/f8b895d100570311a6c6ad333646dd9b.jpg 800w,\n/static/7e34c68877ff96cc3e145c1805ba07f4/16310/f8b895d100570311a6c6ad333646dd9b.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/7e34c68877ff96cc3e145c1805ba07f4/58556/f8b895d100570311a6c6ad333646dd9b.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7e34c68877ff96cc3e145c1805ba07f4/61e93/f8b895d100570311a6c6ad333646dd9b.webp 200w,\n/static/7e34c68877ff96cc3e145c1805ba07f4/1f5c5/f8b895d100570311a6c6ad333646dd9b.webp 400w,\n/static/7e34c68877ff96cc3e145c1805ba07f4/58556/f8b895d100570311a6c6ad333646dd9b.webp 800w,\n/static/7e34c68877ff96cc3e145c1805ba07f4/cc834/f8b895d100570311a6c6ad333646dd9b.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":120,"numPages":11,"currentPage":11,"id":5599,"name":"Pain","slug":"pain","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}