Cannabis has been used medicinally for over four thousand years. Until recently, scientists knew little about how the drug works on the brain. It was made illegal within the usa in the 1930's, and this has hampered further research. Alternatively, recent clinical studies show that the active ingredient THC works by mimicking certain of the brain's neurotransmitters. The exact same properties that provide users a euphoric feeling can also stop pain and treat various illnesses.

Research has shown that medical marijuana can function well as a pain killer and anti-emetic (anti-nausea). It also helps to induce appetite. These qualities are helpful for patients suffering from cancer, especially after getting chemotherapy. These qualities can also help AIDS patients. Drugs that treat AIDS have side effects, and medical marijuana is effective in taking the edge off of them.

One of the challenges of getting medical marijuana is figuring out who is allowed to grow it, and how much they may grow. The states that have legalized marijuana for medical use have implemented standards for whether and just how much marijuana someone is permitted to grow or possess. Things are a little more complicated for dispensaries.

Recently a large store concentrating on information and runtz nugs supplies opened in Sacramento, CA. The store does not sell any marijuana, nor any plants. There are some plants on display however they are owned by licensed individuals and can be removed before they bud.

Certainly, THC can help patients who have problems with glaucoma. Studies show that it lowers intraocular pressure, thus giving a small bit of relief to those who have problems with the disease. It may also help folks who suffer from multiple sclerosis. It relieves pain and treats spasticity, and the latest trials show which it may help in preventing the neurodegeneration linked to the disease.

Another plus is that it's relatively safe. While it isn't true that the drug is completely safe with no side-effects, it really is safer than many prescription medications. It carries no risk of physical addiction, no risk of death, and also the only physical health effects are as a result of the very fact that it is smoked. Many experts feel that marijuana is safer than alcohol.

The idea of medical marijuana has been in existence for years, but only now is it finally being taken seriously. Why the sudden interest? On the whole, society's attitude toward the drug has softened as the war on drugs focuses on more harmful drugs like crystal meth, crack cocaine and heroin. This trend goes along with a decrease in the stigma associated with the drug. It was once thought of as a drug for hippies and degenerates, but now it's just as likely your next door neighbor may smoke it!

Clinical trials continue. There is a lot we still don't know about how the drug works. America has been slow to accept the notion of medical marijuana, but in the next few years it's sure to be an everyday reality all of the time.