Why Are Cannabinoids Of The Essence
Most patients are of the assumption that marijuana is known as THC because that is what it mainly contains. However, that is not true. Recent studies term CBD as THCs non-intoxicating counterpart. Also, CBD and THC are not the only compounds present in . The plant has more than 100 cannabinoids and a bunch of terpenes that work together to give each strain a unique set of holistic properties.
Describe Cannabidiol
While THC and CBD are the most popular, we should not disregard other cannabinoids and terpenes potential benefits. Durban Poison, for instance, contains a high amount of a cannabinoid known as THCV. Studies suggest that the mentioned cannabinoid is not only highly stimulating but can also reduce hunger, which explains why patients rarely get the munchies when they use the strain. For beginners and patients, it is okay to familiarize yourself with these essential marijuana cannabinoids. However, instead of only Indica, Sativa, or hybrid strains, patients should first think about marijuana in terms of THC vs. CBD concentration. These two compounds determine the most effects of marijuana.
New Strains Constantly Being Created
New strains of cannabis, many of which are hybrids of existing strains that display exceptional analgesic or anti-inflammatory qualities, are being created on a regular basis. While some strains are better at dealing with the nausea associated with chemotherapy , most types of cannabis are very good at this.
With such dramatic differences between indicas and sativas in terms of medicinal efficacy and the experience of the patient, those legally using medical cannabis should work with their physician and dispensary to experiment with various strains that are already known to deliver exceptional benefits to other sufferers, especially those with the same condition.
Patients must strive to find the strains that best deal with their particular disease or ailment and its symptoms, including the side effects of any pharmaceutical drugs or therapies. This is typically not an overnight project and may require months or even years of diligent effort. In fact, patients are encouraged to continually experiment with new strains in search of greater potency or a superior cannabinoid profile that delivers improved relief.Because this efficacy is so subjective, the advice of other patients can be given only so much weight. The true test of a particular strain of indica or sativa occurs only when used by an individual patient when they most need it, such as during bouts of pain, nausea, or insomnia.
Its Not Just The Strain But How You Dose Medical Cannabis Beyond Indica Vs Sativa
Beyond the chemical makeup of the plant and whether its an indica or sativa, you have to recognize the effects cannabis has on your body. What may be effective for you may not be effective for someone else. Everyone has their own endocannabinoid system , and different conditions require different cannabinoid treatments. Yes, there may be some similarities between some people, but not with everyone.
You must take into account age, sex, height, activity levels, and body-mass index , as these all play a part in how different cannabinoids act in the body. Women may be more sensitive to the effects of THC, but also build a tolerance to it more quickly.
Older people may benefit more from THC use than younger people , whose brains are still developing. Those who have less fat on their bodies and exercise regularly may metabolize cannabinoids faster, so THC does not stay in the body for as long.
The amount of cannabis used affects results. A low dose of THC may help beat anxiety, whereas a higher dose promotes it. How it is consumed matters as well. 5 mg of THC inhaled is different from 5 mg THC eaten. When eaten THC is more psychoactive, as it passes through the liver first. This breaks THC down into 11-OH-THC , which is more psychoactive than THC.
Tinctures are also easier to measure with regards to dosing, as they come with pipettes with measurements on them and often give a THC:CBD ratio and breakdown of other cannabinoids and terpenes in the product.
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Indica Vs Sativa: Historical Differences
Every Cannabis strain is classified as either sativa, an indica, or as a hybrid. Indica strains are believed to be physically relaxing, providing a sedative effect. The effects of Indica strains have also been described as full-body and deeply relaxing. In comparison, sativa strains have been said to produce more of a head high, which has a more energizing effect. Sativa strains have been associated with reduced anxiety and increased focus and creativity.;Hybrid strains are the mid point between the two and provide a balanced effect. However, there is no scientific basis for these claims. On a molecular level, these plants are all identical.
Sativa originated in warmer areas in the world that are closer to the equator, including Central and South America, and Southeast Asia. On the other hand, indica comes from the Middle East . In 1785, French biologist Jean Baptiste Lamarck distinguished Cannabis plants based on their appearance. According to Lamarck, these different types of Cannabis had different leaflets, flowers, stalks and branching patterns. Along with other differences, Lamarck said that sativa-type Cannabis plants were taller, and had thinner leaves, while indica-type Cannabis plants were shorter, and had firmer stems and thicker leaves. Lamarck also claimed that indica-type Cannabis plants had a stronger smell, and had an intoxicating effect when smoked.
Indica Vs Sativa: Which Strain Is Right For My Condition
Which cannabis species is right for your medical condition: sativa or indica? While your doctor can make recommendations, we discuss the most popular choices for three of the most common medical conditions MMJ is used to treat.
Step into any dispensary or search online, and youll find a variety of weed strains designed to help a number of different health conditions. Some strains are sativa-dominant, others are indica-dominant, and a few are hybrids. But how can you know which one is the right choice for you?
While experimentation is the best way to find the right strain for your needs, some are generally better than others when it comes to treating certain health conditions.
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Getting Your Marijuana Card
Patients suffering from Parkinsons Disease can usually obtain a medical marijuana card if their state has a medical cannabis program. That said, Parkinsons is not always listed as a qualifying condition. Missouri lists Parkinsons in their program, whereas does not. Fear not, though. Symptoms of Parkinsons, like pain or even seizures, usually qualify a patient for a medical marijuana card.
If you have any questions about qualifying in your state, or youd like to know more about medical cannabis, give our support team a ring at . Our staff can set you up with an appointment, or simply answer any questions about cannabis you may have.;
You can also check out our medical conditions page to understand more about how cannabis works to heal the body. You can also view our cannabis education page for additional studies.
Does Cannabis Prevent Parkinsons
Some may think that if cannabis can help patients suffering from Parkinsons Disease, surely it can prevent Parkinsons too, right? Well, that sadly isnt the case. Cannabis can help patients with motor movement, but cannabis cannot prevent Parkinsons Disease from happening in the body.
There is no known scientific study or research to indicate that cannabis will ever be able to outright cure or prevent Parkinsons. That doesnt mean that cannabis isnt a great tool for physicians and practitioners to try with patients who are not responding to traditional Parkinsons medication options. But dont expect a miracle.;
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The Best Method For Parkinsons Patients To Medicate With Cannabis
Patients with Parkinsons Disease will want to look to CBD-heavy strains, or indica strains, as they can reach the endocannabinoid system throughout your body and help relax shaking or spasming muscles. This may also reduce tremors and ease general anxiety.;
Sativa strains are great for a head rush, or a burst of energy, but are less effective with Parkinsons patients because they dont reach the body in quite the same ways as an indica or CBD-heavy strain.;
Patients can smoke, vape or even eat cannabis to achieve a positive effect. Smoking isnt the best method , but many patients still prefer this old tried-and-true method.;
However, vaping and edibles are a better way to administer cannabis. Parkinsons patients can either take a bite of a brownie, or eat a gummy. Or they could even have a caretaker administer a drop of a cannabis tincture, sublingually. Many patients actually prefer this method because of its quick release and effectiveness.
Could Cannabis Prevent Or Delay The Nerve Damage Of Parkinsons
Parkinsons Disease is the second most common neurological condition after Alzheimer’s. Inflammation can damage the neurons which produce dopamine. Perhaps the anti-inflammatory properties of cannabis are further studied in clinical trials. Although there have been several studies, the illegality of cannabis has prevented much of the research until recently. This article from Medical News Today summarises the current research, and points out that more medical research is needed. Many involved in the treatment and care of Parkinsons Disease patients will be both fascinated and hopeful that the current interest in cannabis as a preventative medicine can be confirmed by future medical research.
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Best Strains* For Parkinsons Disease
Finding the right strain for your specific needs can be a challenge. We are all unique and certain strains can have different effects on people. Thats why its super important to be patient and do some research before signing up for an LP or visiting a dispensary. Here are a few strains* to help you start your journey on finding the right one.
Kobain Kush
Named after the famous rock-star, Kobain Kush is a perfect Indica for PD patients since its well balanced and doesnt induce sleepiness. Very effective in reducing pain and stress, its relaxing effect makes patients forget their worries while calming both body and mind. For PD patients the main benefit from this strain is that its great for muscle spasms and tremors.
Which Is Better For Parkinson’s Indica Or Sativa
Which Is Better For Parkinson’s Indica Or Sativa. Indica and sativa plants differ not only in their physiological effects, but also in their appearance. To better understand the differences between indica and sativa, it helps to first take a more general look at the taxonomy of cannabis.
Instead of using pure indica or pure sativa, many patients can benefit from the use of hybrid strains. The buds likewise are better ventilated and taller than those of cannabis indica. Cannabis has classically been defined as indica, sativa, hybrid or ruderalis. Cannabis sativa is expected to have a thc level which is high with a low cbd level and thus exhibit marked stimulation and low relaxation. The biggest differences between the two cannabis plants, what effects each produces and how to tell them apart.
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Medical Cannabis And Parkinsons Disease
Researchers believe that cannabis can be useful in replenishing dopamine levels and hence helping people suffering from Parkinsons disease. The human body has the endocannabinoid system that has cannabinoid receptors. These receptors are scattered throughout the body and are linked to the brain cells that are responsible for regulating certain body functions and thinking. Many scientists also believe that cannabis may have neuroprotective properties, which means that it can protect brain cells from getting damaged from Parkisons disease.
Causes Of Parkinsons Disease
People suffering from Parkinsons disease are not able to produce enough chemical dopamine. The reason behind this is that some of the nerve cells that produce it have died. These cells stop working correctly and eventually become lost. The fall of dopamine levels results in abnormal brain activity. And this further causes symptoms of Parkinsons.
But, there are also some factors involved in this. These include genetics, toxins, gender, age, and Lewy bodies.
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Can Medical Cannabis Help People With Parkinsons Disease
Medical cannabis has gained a lot of popularity in recent times, because of its health benefits. It can be used to help people with various conditions such as cancer, arthritis, chronic pain, PTSD, epilepsy, Parkinsons disease, and more. You can buy medical cannabis from a licensed dispensary for your medical condition after getting a medical marijuana card. Medical marijuana doctors in NY can provide you this recommendation card after evaluating your condition.
According to the Parkinsons Foundation, there are up to 10 million people who suffer from this condition worldwide. Parkinsons Disease affects around 60,000 Americans every year. Reports suggest that men are more prone to this condition than women. There are 50 percent more chances of them having this condition than women. PD is mainly associated with the aging process, but around 4 percent of people who are diagnosed with it are under the age of 50. And while Parkinsons disease is not fatal, it can certainly reduce the quality of your life, even if you are getting proper treatment. Only the person suffering from this condition can understand the severity of this condition. Many people are now turning to medical cannabis for help after the ineffectiveness of traditional treatments. And most cannabis consumers claim that it has a positive effect on their symptoms.
What Strains Would You Recommend For Parkinson’s Disease
Hello, and thank you for the great question.
Numerous studies have been conducted on marijuana and its active components. While not entirely conclusive, the research on marijuana shows promise for people with PD.For PD, marijuana is thought to provide numerous benefits, including:
pain reliefreduced tremorsbetter quality of sleepimproved overall moodmore ease in movement
Despite the potential benefits of marijuana for people with Parkinsons, there are also some risk factors involved. THC in marijuana can cause:
impaired thinking and movementshallucinationsmemory problemsmood changes
So when considering the above, it becomes clear that most of the positive effects cannabis has on PD derives from CBD , whereas most of the possible adverse effects are derived from THC. As such, I would recommend that you seek “high cbd strains.”
ACDC is a hybrid strain that I have touted for several conditions which would benefit from a high CBD and low THC content. The cannabinoid content is extremely CBD-dominant, sitting on average at 20:1 in its CBD/THC ratio. An imperceptible amount of THC makes ACDC an outstanding companion for daily medicinal cannabis. ACDC would be my top overall recommendation as treatment for the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
A sativa strain I also recommend is Harlequin. Harlequin is one of the most popular CBD strains available. Typically testing around the 5:2 CBD/THC ratio, it exhibits a sativa-dominant alertness with only mild euphoria.
drkim
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What Exactly Do Terpenes Do
While it is a well-known fact Indica-dominant strains cause a heavy body high, and Sativa-dominant strains are more likely to offer an invigorating cerebral high, there is more than meets the eye. Why? Well, the impact of a strain comes down to the mix of cannabinoids and terpenes. Indica dominant strains are known to contain high levels of a terpene known as myrcene. Most Indica-dominant strains usually contain between 0.5 and 3% if myrcene, while Sativa dominant strains have about 0 to 0.5% of the same terpene. Experts believe that the terpene is responsible for Indica dominant strains signature sedative or couch-lock effect. Why Sativa-dominant strains cause a more uplifting effect is not apparent yet, but we believe it has something to do with other terpenes and cannabinoids present in the strain. Other common terpenes include caryophyllene, pinene, limonene, linalool, ocimene, and many others.
Why The Indica Strain Is Unique
The Indica strain is popular due to its relaxation effects and is often the number one choice among patients struggling with insomnia and anxiety. While it is an excellent choice for both day and night time use, the Indica strain is often associated with night usage.
- Origin: Indica strains were first discovered in Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, Turkey, and other regions across the Hindu Kush Mountain region. They were discovered a few years after Sativa was discovered.; Indica strains do pretty well in dry and harsh climates found in these regions.
- Physical Description: Indica plants can best be described as short and stocky, with broad and chunky leaves. Indica plants flourish faster and produce more buds than Sativa. Since;Indica plants are short and stocky, they tend to have a higher chlorophyll intake, and as a result, will usually have a darker shade of green than Sativa.
- Flowering Time: As noted, Indica generally flowers faster than Sativa and may take between 45 and 60 days to bloom. However, as mentioned earlier, Sativa plants take less time during vegetative growth, which means that both strains may take almost the same time to flower. Just like the plant, the buds are also quite heavy and tend to grow in clusters.
- The Aroma: Indica strains are known to have a musty, earthy aroma with mildly skunky notes.
- Cannabinoids Ratio: Unlike their Sativa counterparts, Indica strains have a higher CBD to THC concentration ratio, which explains the calming and sedative effects.
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What Is Tetrahydrocannabinol
Tetrahydrocannabinol is one of the 113 cannabinoids identified in the flowering plant genus Cannabis. The psychoactive chemical has been shown to reduce nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy, improve appetite in people with HIV/AIDS, and reduce chronic pain and muscle spasms. THC demonstrates its effects through weak partial agonist activity at Cannabinoid-1 and Cannabinoid-2 receptors, while having a higher affinity for CB1 receptors. In chronic cannabis users, the CB1 receptor can become desensitized and lead to Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome . THC is a Schedule I drug of the Controlled Substances Act and remains illegal on the Federal level in the United States.