Written by: Christina Vestey
You may think that cannabis is just for rolling a joint to get a mellow high. However, lately and increasingly, cannabis is being used by doctors to treat a multitude of serious health issues. Which has led to the production of medical cannabis. And to it being legalized in many countries around the world to meet the demand.
Whilst this is an indeed an interesting development. Its important to note the differences between normal cannabis and medical cannabis. To start with, in order to produce the medicinal variety they remove the TCH (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is what causes psychological changes and gives you the high. Medical cannabis still has a calming effect on the nerves but you won’t be getting the high, the giggles or the need to raid the kitchen fridge after taking it. Its real impact however has been on illnesses that effect the nerves. Illnesses like, multiple sclerosis, parkinson’s disease, epilepsy and anxiety to name a few. I for one am all for this new use of cannabis. Especially as I have seen the positive effects it has had on my mother who has parkinson’s disease. Who, after taking it for some time, has noticed a real difference and takes it daily.
But Cannabis is not only being used for medicinal purposes. Hemp which is also part of the same plant is being used to produce natural fabrics and building blocks for housing. On a hectare of land, you can produce enough hemp in 5 months to build a family home. Requiring no pesticides or fertilisers it is super easy to grow and so it’s no wonder hemp forests are a booming industry.
Hemp seeds are also full of protein and a great source of vitamins and minerals. Used in muesli or in salads and soups they have a slightly nutty taste and are delicious. You can find them in most health food stores today. So whether you are looking for something to help with a medical condition. Or are simply interested in all the other benefits of cannabis, it is worth while learning more. Especially as the rest of the world starts to take notice.