The Benefits of Medical Marijuana in Florida

Florida has a relatively inclusive list of conditions that are covered by medical marijuana; to include a clause that allows doctors to prescribe it at their discretion for outlying conditions similar to the ones already covered under Florida law. Florida’s new medical marijuana laws came into effect in 2016, and many new developments in the realm of medical marijuana benefits have followed. More and more patients are asking their doctors about medical marijuana benefits; and turning to medical marijuana for its therapeutic properties and lower risk of addiction when compared to a number of other medications on the market today. So what is medical marijuana? And what are the medical benefits of marijuana? In this article we’ll discuss some of the latest breakthroughs in the medical field surrounding the medical benefits of marijuana and conditions that are covered in Florida.

What is medical marijuana?

Medical cannabis is a grayish green plant which contains cannabinoids, such as (and most notably) tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). It has been approved for medical use in 31 different states, so far. Historically, the plant has been used both medicinally as well as recreationally, however. When consumed recreationally, it is typically for the psychoactive effects that THC can have. While it is not approved for recreational use in many states across America, its medicinal use is becoming much less strictly regulated. When used medicinally, a number of new studies indicate that medical cannabis can have a variety of therapeutic effects which may help treat several different conditions. As a result, the benefits of medical marijuana can now be shared with patients in Florida suffering from conditions such as: cancer, epilepsy glaucoma, HIV, AIDS, post-traumatic stress disorder, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, terminal illnesses, chronic nonmalignant pain, and medical conditions of the same kind or class as or comparable to those listed. For those patients who do not wish to experience the high that comes with THC use, there is also cannabidiol, or CBD. CBD is derived from the male marijuana plant (hemp) and contains very little THC if any. Put simply, CBD shares many of the same beneficial cannabinoids as its sister plant with little or no psychoactive side effects. Many medical marijuana practitioners agree that, while THC may be a necessary cannabinoid for some treatment regimens, CBD is often every bit as effective for a number of patients.

What are the benefits of medical marijuana?

As we mentioned earlier, Florida patients who suffer from a number of different conditions may legally use medical marijuana once all the proper steps have been taken. But what are the benefits of medical marijuana when it comes to those conditions? More recently, physicians have conducted studies which show that medical cannabis may benefit patients suffering from several different conditions by providing benefits such as: inhibiting carcinogenesis (tumor cell growth), reducing psychological symptoms of post-traumatic stress, reducing inflammation associated with Crohn’s disease, reducing tremors and muscular rigidity linked to Parkinson’s disease, and reducing the occurrence of epileptic seizures, to name a few.

How can I obtain a medical marijuana card?

In order to obtain a medical marijuana card in Florida, several conditions must be met first. First you must acquire your medical records and bring them to a physician who is legally able to prescribe medical marijuana. From there, your medical cannabis doctor and you can talk about the issues you are having as a result of your condition(s). At The Herbal Clinic, we will help guide you through the process of obtaining your card and filing your paperwork properly while providing expert care and advice. Our staff and onsite physician will provide you with the best in professionalism so that the process of obtaining your medical marijuana card is as stress free as possible. Call 727-202-4325 or click here today!