Can everyone use Cannabis? - No, there are people who are allergic to Cannabis. Allergies are most common in regards to Smoking. Allergies to ingested Cannabis are rare and usually mild, but use caution if you are allergic or react to the smoke.
Will Cannabis interact with my other medications? If you have high blood pressure and use blood pressure medications you must proceed carefully. Cannabis naturally lowers blood pressure so you and your health provider should be aware and take the steps to monitor your blood pressure. Check with your Dr before mixing cannabis in your medication regime.
Those with Diabetes must be aware that Cannabis could possibly lower their blood sugars, therefore you should Discuss this possibility with your healthcare provider and make arrangements to test your blood sugar levels more often as your body gets used to its new medicine.
Research is showing that certain types of breast cancer, those that are hormone driven, may react differently to different types of Cannabinoids. High CBD, a 1:1 ratio, rather than high THC strains alone may be more effective.
A caution when using Cannabis to help wean off other drugs. Never stop any medication without consulting your Health care Provider. Stopping pharmaceutical or street drugs cold turkey can result in serious health problems, even death. Always wean yourself off prescribed drugs with the advice of a Professional
Some patients complain that smoking cannabis causes acne. This appears to happen in some cases, the suggested remedy is to wash your face with a mild soap after every smoking session. I will mention, that many claim that acne and other problems cleared up within weeks of using Cannabis topically or when ingesting.
Will Cannabis hurt my teeth and Gums? No. Taking the oil by mouth can cause slight staining, but its easily removed by brushing with baking soda or toothpaste. Gums can be kept healthy by brushing. Brushing and flossing daily should your habit while using Cannabis.
Will Cannabis make me stupid? No, it may make you feel sleepy for an hour or two, but unless you stay stoned all day there should be no negative effect to your energy level or mental capacities. Research is proving that Cannabis actually repairs and strengthens damaged brain cells. Many people feel more creative and are able to think faster after using Cannabis.
Will Cannabis make me clumsy? Possibly. If you are over-medicated, or new to using Cannabis you may feel awkward and slow. Unlike Alcohol, few people fall while under the influence of Cannabis, but care should be taken, especially with the old and the very young who are new to Cannabis.
Is it safe to drive after using Cannabis? No, not if you are feeling stoned. There have been several studies that tested the safety of driving while under the influence of Cannabis. The studies concluded that Cannabis intoxication is much safer than alcohol intoxicated drivers, but we believe that there is a point where it does become less safe. These studies also showed that the blood THC level in medical patients is not a fair or accurate way to measure intoxication. Because medical users have constant high levels because of daily use, they become immune to the “high” effects in a matter of days or weeks, so while their THC levels may show high, they are not “under the effects” Its also been shown that Cannabis users will most often choose not to drive if they feel stoned, a much different reaction that those under the influence of Alcohol. Cannabis users do not seem to be likely to be risk takers, the opposite reaction than those who over indulge in alcohol. Our advice is to wait at least 2 hours after smoking or vaporizing Cannabis before you drive. When ingesting, you must be aware that its likely that you wont feel its affects for at least an hour and that they may last several hours longer than had you smoked. Be cautious and respectful of your medication.
Is it dangerous to smoke Cannabis and drink? No, its not dangerous, but it is irresponsible. Cannabis and alcohol are not a good combination. Many people end up very sick, vomiting, and with uncomfortable side effects. You may also feel the effects of the alcohol to a greater degree. Our advice, don’t drink and use Cannabis.
Will Cannabis make me fat? No, it may increase your appetite and you may eat more but what you eat is up to you. Most regular Cannabis users find that they lose weight if they are overweight and gain weight if they are underweight. Some users don’t get the munchies at all.
Will my heart race? It may feel like its racing but in reality its likely only increased your heart rate by about 10%.
Will I feel paranoid? Some people do experience slight paranoia and anxiety. This can be prevented by using small doses, being with someone you trust for your first few experiences, and by being in a safe, familiar place. Smelling black pepper (not sniffing it up your nose) can be helpful in stopping any paranoia. Should you over-medicate and begin to panic, talk to yourself, have a warm bath, read a book, talk to a friend. Bad trips are rare unless you've taken far too much medication. Remember, more isnt better, you can only get so stoned (its not like alcohol) So don’t be a cannabis glutton. Use small amounts to start, you can always take a bit more, but you cant reverse what you've already taken.
Will all strains of Cannabis have the same side effects? No, there are 3 different types of Cannabis.
#1-Indica, known to be relaxing and sedative, described as being “body stoned” as overindulging can cause what users call , couch lock. Indica is recommended for treating serious illnesses where rest is beneficial and is widely used to aid with sleeping problems. It is often used by cancer patients to ease their nausea and pain as well as to help them sleep.
#2-Sativa, it can be relaxing but energizing, its often described as “heady” Many people say that it helps them to be creative and aids them in concentrating. It is also proving to be effective in treating depression, anxiety, ADD, Autism and other similar disorders.
Many people find that a Sativa is a perfect daytime medication as it is energizing and will often make one feel more alert. Indicas are best used in the evenings or before bed because of its sedative effects.
#3-Cannabis Ruderalis, This type is considered to be industrial or agricultural. It contains very little THC and although it can be high in CBDs, Ruderalis does not contain the combination of cannabinoids needed to help with serious illness. Its seeds are an excellent food source and are high in nutritional oils and is a healthy dietary supplement. The seeds can be shelled and consumed, pressed seed oils are good addition to our diets. The stalk can be used in hundreds of applications for things such as fabrics, plastics, fuel and building material
Remember, in its 5000 year history, not a single death has been directly related to the use of Cannabis.
@elleneastcoast loving this post! .. some great info and well put together. Keep up the good work.