Marijuana is still a very new thing for many people as an alternate form of medication.
Despite it being legal in 37 states in the USA, there are still some misconceptions about the drug—not surprising given that it was considered an illicit drug not too long ago.
Here are five common myths about medical marijuana that people still tend to believe.
Myth#1: Medical marijuana can lead to drug use
Marijuana is often labeled as a gateway drug, meaning that it’s believed that its use can be a precursor for recreational drug use and encourage people to try “hard” drugs—there is no evidence that this is true, however.
Drug addiction among individuals who have a general disposition to take all kinds of drugs, including illicit ones is one of the main reasons why this myth still exists.
But, studies suggest that medical marijuana may be a safer alternative to traditional prescription medication and may even help reduce opium dependency.
Myth#2: It can only be smoked
It’s not difficult to see why this myth exists since the media usually shows marijuana being smoked.
Today, medical marijuana is available in various forms and can be consumed in several different ways, including.
Inhalation
The drug is placed inside a vaporizer that heats up and vaporizes the active ingredients, which can then be inhaled by the patient. Compared to smoking, using a vaporizer is a healthier option, as it eliminates throat irritation from burnt substances.
Sublingual
CBD Oil made from medical marijuana is placed inside the mouth—generally under the tongue—and is absorbed through the tongue or the cheek.
Ingestion
The drug is taken orally by ingesting marijuana-infused edibles or capsules.
Topical
Topical creams and lotions made from marijuana are applied directly to the skin—the effect of these treatments is limited to the area they are applied to.
Myth#3: Medical marijuana with high CBD levels can make you feel high
Cannabidiol (CBD) is the non-psychoactive component of marijuana—it does not cause people to experience a high. Instead, it may make people experience a sense of calmness, however, not everyone may experience this feeling.
In addition, not all strains of medical marijuana have high levels of CBD; the usual CBD to THC ratio in medical marijuana products is 1:1 or 2:1.
CBD can also help reduce the effects of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component of marijuana that actually makes people high.
Myth#4: Anyone can buy medical marijuana from any dispensary
Even though medical marijuana is legalized in most states, a person will need a medical marijuana card to purchase it.
This card is issued by the state and requires a signed recommendation from a licensed medical professional. Other state-specific requirements may also need to be met for a person to obtain a medical marijuana card.
Also, medical marijuana cannot be purchased at regular dispensaries; it must be purchased from dispensaries that are licensed to sell medical marijuana products.
Myth#5: CBD is only good for relieving pain
CBD has been observed to help with more than just chronic pain.
Today, licensed medical professionals use medical marijuana to treat a wide variety of health issues, including depression, anxiety, epilepsy, glaucoma, drug withdrawal, and more.
That said, the effectiveness of CBD in treating these medical problems varies from person to person. This is why it’s important to only go for medical marijuana treatment under supervision from a medical professional.
Medical marijuana is a viable medical alternative
Despite the many myths surrounding medical marijuana, it has proven to be a viable form of medication for treating many common medical conditions.
That said, it’s critical to have a good understanding of medical marijuana before using it—always speak with a licensed medical professional before you start your medical marijuana treatment.
