A Beginner’s Guide to Cannabis

A Beginner's Guide to Cannabis

In recent years, there has been an enormous amount of public interest in the subject of cannabis use. Long famed for providing relief to a variety of ailments ranging from insomnia to late-stage cancer, cannabis appears to be finally gaining public acceptance on a wide scale.

Indeed, many states have already legalized cannabis use and cannabis sales, and a recent push for legalization at a federal level would make marijuana legal for purchase in all 50 states.

But people who are new to cannabis often have several questions about the efficacy and use of the plant. Here are just a few key facts about cannabis, and why many people view the use of cannabis as a life-changing experience for the better.

1. Cannabis is Very Effective in the Treatment of Illnesses

At a time when many “Big Pharma” companies are pushing a variety of different treatments for serious illnesses, many people are finding that cannabis is far more effective as a medication than big-name pharmaceuticals. This is because cannabis has a variety of properties that aid sleep, reduce nausea, and promote a healthy appetite.

For people who are undergoing chemotherapy for cancer, for example, using cannabis often means the difference between suffering intolerable side-effects from treatment and managing symptoms well. Military veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder have also claimed that cannabis use is the one form of treatment that reduces PTSD symptoms without creating negative side-effects.

2. Cannabis Promotes Deep, Critical Thinking Patterns and Creative Thought

Many people who have used cannabis have found that the plant can provide moments of deep philosophical reflection. For example, the famous scientist Carl Sagan regularly used cannabis to achieve a deeper insight into scientific knowledge and philosophical questions about life. Sagan swore by the plant’s thought-provoking properties and often shared insights he gained from cannabis use in his scientific work.

Indeed, many people find that the kind of self-reflection that is possible while using cannabis can promote better decision-making and a healthier sense of self. There is much anecdotal evidence to suggest that cannabis use can also make people feel more empathy towards others and a greater connection to society. Many people also feel as though they are better able to understand their personal values after using cannabis.

3. There Are Different Types of Cannabis

There are two major types of cannabis and an enormous variety of different strains for individuals to explore. Because it promotes feelings of calmness and even sleepiness, for example, the “indica” marijuana plant is a popular option for individuals suffering from anxiety disorders or insomnia.

Conversely, the “sativa” marijuana plant is known for promoting feelings of energy and creativity in individuals. People who enjoy outdoor activities or artistic pursuits often find that sativa-based or sativa-dominant marijuana strains can help them to relax and undertake life-affirming activities.

Every marijuana strain tends to have its own unique set of effects, and a bit of trial-and-error may be required to find the strain that is right for you.

4. A Bit of Caution is Necessary

Like any activity, cannabis use requires a bit of caution. For example, overuse of cannabis can exacerbate feelings of anxiety; this is particularly true for people who suffer from anxiety disorders such as Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) or Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD).

As with any pursuit in life, moderation in the use of cannabis is important. Individuals should be honest with themselves about whether their cannabis use is interfering with their ability to live their lives: For example, activities such as driving a motor vehicle or operating heavy machinery should be strictly avoided while under the influence of cannabis.

For these reasons, discovering the benefits of responsible cannabis can be a life-changing experience for the better. It might take a while to find the right strain for your needs, but individuals who explore the possibilities of healthy cannabis use often find that their quality of life is improved immeasurably by the experience. Truly, that is cannabis use at its best!