A Beginner’s Guide to Cannabis

A Beginner’s Guide to Cannabis

By: Maureen Macleod, RN, BSN

 

If you’re new to the cannabis world, welcome! Here are some important foundational topics to increase your knowledge and get the most out of your experience.

 

THC vs. CBD


THC & CBD are both natural compounds and are two of the most well-known cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. The cannabis sativa plant contains over 500 chemical substances that carry unique and healing properties (NIH, 2019). 

 

Tetrahydrocannabinol, also known as THC, is the psychoactive component, which produces the “high” commonly associated with cannabis use. THC can act as an antiemetic, analgesic, antispasmodic, appetite suppressant, and modulator of the endocrine system. THC can have both short and long-term effects on the brain and nervous system. Potential side effects include changes in mood or behavior, delayed reaction time, anxiety, and even psychosis. 

 

Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, does not cause any psychoactive effects. CBD is well-known for its anti-spasmodic, antiepileptic, anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, and anti-addictive properties. CBD does not directly activate CB1 or CB2 receptors, so its side effects are less severe, but can have an effect on certain medications when administered together.  

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To smoke or not?


There are two primary ways of consuming cannabis: ingesting or inhaling. When cannabis is smoked, THC travels from the lungs into the bloodstream, where the chemical is spread throughout the body and attaches to cannabinoid receptors in various parts of nerve cells (Marijuana/Cannabis, 2020). While smoking/vaping is the quickest route, it can be harsh on the lungs and is not recommended as the primary method for individuals with pulmonary conditions. Ingestion takes longer but can have longer lasting effects. Additionally, THC is converted into a stronger form when it hits the liver through ingestion and, therefore, the high can be more potent. Ingestion can include edibles, tinctures, powders, or even pills. Overall, it is an individualized approach to determine which method is best for health, safety, and optimal outcomes. 

 

What Conditions Can Cannabis Treat?


Research has shown that cannabis can help alleviate the symptoms of the following:

  • Anxiety

  • Epilepsy

  • Inflammatory bowel disease (i.e. Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis)

  • Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and muscle spasms

  • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

  • Sleep problems (i.e. fewer disturbances, improved sleep quality)

  • Glaucoma

  • Nausea & Vomiting related to Chemotherapy 

  • Alzhemier’s Disease

  • Severe and chronic pain


With cannabis, individuals report pain relief, improved sleep, reduced nausea/vomiting, and overall improved quality of life. Depending on the state you live in and your health condition(s), you may qualify for a medical marijuana card. It is recommended to consult with your PCP before making any decisions on the use of cannabis, especially if you are taking any prescribed medications, as there is a risk of potential drug interactions. 




Helpful Resources:


Cannabis Doctors: https://www.marijuanadoctors.com/conditions/

  • Searchable list of conditions/treatments as well as updated articles on cannabis.


Leafly: https://www.leafly.com/

  • Shows a map of dispensaries by location along with recipes, discounts, and education.


Weedmaps: https://weedmaps.com/

  • Displays a list of dispensaries and where you can find specific products as well as provider information regarding certification of the medical cannabis program.


Project CBD: https://projectcbd.org/safety/cbd-for-beginners/

  • Great information for individuals new to the cannabis space, especially related to CBD.


Americans for Safe Access: https://www.safeaccessnow.org/

  • Helpful resources for cannabis caregivers, especially for parents caring for young kids.



References


Drug fact sheet: Marijuana/cannabis. dea.gov. (2020, April). https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2020-06/Marijuana-Cannabis-2020_0.pdf 

SAMHSA. (2023, February). Cannabidiol (CBD) – potential harms, side effects, and Unknowns. samhsa.gov. https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/pep22-06-04-003.pdf 

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2019, November). Cannabis (marijuana) and cannabinoids: What you need to know. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.


FGF MainFour Green FieldsTHC, cbd, anxiety, cannabis, cancer, medical cannabis, inflammation, sleep