Cannabis for Veterans in Maryland Although medical marijuana is legal in 33 states and DC, veterans are unable to obtain a prescription or recommendation for cannabis through the Department of Veteran’s Affairs health system. This restriction has proven to be especially challenging for the women and men who live in states where cannabis for veterans is legal and could benefit from marijuana’s therapeutic effects. Continue reading to learn about the VA’s position on cannabis for veterans, and if it’s expected to change anytime in the near future. What’s the VA’s Stance on Cannabis for Veterans? When it comes to veterans and marijuana, the Department of Veteran’s Affairs health system does not permit physicians to prescribe or recommend medical marijuana. This is true even in states where medical cannabis is legal and would offer patients an alternative to opioids for chronic pain. Additionally, a number of veterans have attempted to seek cannabis to treat PTSD and other mental health diagnoses, but have not been successful. In fact, only in the past few years, has the VA changed its regulations to allow physicians to even discuss cannabis when requested by the patient or when it’s clinically relevant. How Can Veterans Gain Access to Medical Marijuana? Due to the VA’s stance, many servicemen and women have sought written recommendations from medical marijuana doctors outside of the organization. Doing so helps patients legally gain access to cannabis, but requires them to pay out of pocket. As a result, they often have difficulty keeping up with this added expense. What’s more, individuals who get opioids through the VA risk losing their prescriptions in the event that they are screened and test positive for marijuana. Can Veterans Expect VA Regulations to Change Anytime Soon? Rep. Luis Correa, D-Calif., and Rep. Clay Higgins, R-La introduced a bill called the VA Medicinal Cannabis Research Act of 2019 to compel the VA to conduct research on the effects of medicinal cannabis on veterans diagnosed with chronic pain and PTSD. Introduced in the House, the proposed legislation has more than 60 sponsors, including five Republicans. There have been several other bills introduced in Congress to increase veterans’ access to medical marijuana in states where it is legal. However, many believe that it would take federal legalization of cannabis for the VA to change its position on veterans and cannabis use. Learn More About the Benefits of Cannabis for Veterans If you would like to learn more about the therapeutic effects of medical marijuana Maryland, please contact Dispensary Works today.
Can Cannabis Help Patients With Autism and Anxiety?
Medical Marijuana Maryland Until recently, pharmaceutical treatments have been the standard of care for individuals on the autism spectrum. However, thanks to new developments in cannabis research, medical marijuana is emerging as a safe, effective, and viable option for children and adults with autism and anxiety. Continue reading to learn more about these findings and the therapeutic effects of cannabis for autism and anxiety. The Benefits of Cannabis for Autism A growing number of individuals on the autism spectrum are turning to cannabis and CBD-rich products as an alternative to pharmaceutical therapies. This especially true for families with children on the spectrum, who are in search of a more accessible and affordable option, with fewer side effects. Fortunately, there is a considerable amount of research that supports the benefits of cannabis for autism. In fact, a study published in The Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders examined the effects of CBD on 60 children on the autism spectrum and found that medical marijuana improved behavioral outbursts in 61% of participants. What’s more, a study published in January 2019, treated 180 patients on the autism spectrum with an oil comprised of 30% CBD and 1.5% THC. Researchers found that the cannabis treatment alleviated maladaptive behaviors and was also safe and well-tolerated. The Benefits of Cannabis for Anxiety In many cases, individuals on the autism spectrum also suffer from anxiety. According to the Interactive Autism Network, approximately 40% of children and up to 50% of adults meet the clinical criteria for an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders, which may include social anxiety, phobia, panic disorder, generalized anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorder, have traditionally been addressed with heavy pharmaceuticals. However, numerous clinical trials worldwide have demonstrated that cannabis and CBD are a possible alternative for the treatment of anxiety and maladaptive behaviors. In fact, cannabis for anxiety has been shown to provide symptom relief as well as improve overall quality of life. Learn More About Cannabis for Autism and Anxiety If you would like additional information about cannabis for autism and anxiety, please contact Dispensary Works today.
Cannabis for Pain
Medical Marijuana Maryland While marijuana provides a number of therapeutic benefits, cannabis for pain is of particular interest to many women and men in Maryland. In fact, an increasing number of people are looking to relieve pain with medical marijuana in Maryland and seeking it as an alternative treatment for cancer pain, neuropathy, joint pain, and inflammation. Continue reading to learn all about cannabis for pain, including how it works and clinical research studies, read on. How to Relieve Pain with Medical Marijuana in Maryland If you’d like to relieve pain with medical marijuana in Maryland, it’s important to understand how cannabis compounds affect the brain. Cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are two of the most-studied and well- known cannabinoids and are able to stimulate cannabinoid receptors in the brain. More specifically, THC, which has psychoactive properties and elevates mood, has the ability to activate reward centers in the brain in order to alleviate pain. On the other hand, CBD doesn’t have psychoactive properties and won’t produce feelings of euphoria – frequently-referred to as a high. However, it does offer pain relief by reducing inflammation and promoting better sleep. Research on Cannabis for Pain Although research is ongoing, a number of studies have demonstrated the positive effects of medical marijuana on chronic pain, including neuropathy. What’s more, a 2016 paper revealed that medical marijuana significantly reduced chronic pain in cancer patients and led to a 64% reduction in opioid use. It also improved participant’s quality of life, decreased medication side effects, and reduced the number of medications they used. Additionally, other studies have demonstrated that chronic migraine sufferers experienced pain relief and fewer migraine episodes after treatment with medical marijuana. Learn More About Cannabis for Pain If you would like to learn more about the benefits of cannabis for pain in Maryland, please contact Dispensary Works today.
Cannabis for Retirees
Marijuana for Retirees is on the Rise Medical marijuana is on the rise in Maryland, and the benefits of cannabis for retirees are at an all-time high. Many retirees, who are part of the baby boomer generation, grew up using marijuana for recreational purposes. With the legalization of medical cannabis in 33 states and DC, these men and women are now turning to marijuana as a natural alternative to opioids, sleep aids, and antidepressants. Continue reading to see why seniors are among the fastest growing group of cannabis-users. What is Medical Cannabis? Medical marijuana is derived from a pure, uncut cannabis plant and contains potent chemical compounds known as cannabinoids. Of these, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) offer the greatest therapeutic benefits for a variety of medical conditions, including chronic pain, depression, anxiety, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease. What Are the Benefits of Cannabis for Retirees? In discussing the benefits of cannabis for retirees, it’s important to note the different effects of THC and CBD on receptors in the brain and throughout the body. THC THC is a cannabinoid that has psychoactive properties and can induce a high. However, that’s not the main reason that seniors are turning to products with THC. Rather, it’s because THC has been shown to be effective in the treatment of Alzheimer’s/dementia. More specifically, THC can: Aid in the removal of amyloid beta protein clumps in the brain Slow the formation and progression of plaques on the brain Prevent inflammatory response from nerve cells Mitigate behavioral symptoms like agitation and aggression CBD Many retirees wish to avoid getting high and are hesitant to consume any marijuana containing THC. Fortunately, CBD doesn’t induce any feelings of euphoria and can be applied in the form of a lotion, salve, balm or oil to reduce inflammation and pain. Another advantage of CBD cannabis for retirees in Maryland is that it produces a calming effect, which is helpful in the treatment of anxiety and depression. Learn More About Cannabis for Retirees At Dispensary Works in Maryland, our budtenders have the knowledge and experience to customize medical marijuana recommendations to each individual’s unique needs. Contact us online today to learn more.
Medical Marijuana Tinctures: Everything You Need to Know
Marijuana Consumption Methods Maryland While smoking, vaping, and edibles are all popular choices, medical marijuana tinctures provide an excellent alternative. If you are new to medical marijuana and feel overwhelmed by the many product and consumption offerings, you are not alone. In fact, many individuals are unsure about how they should consume medical marijuana and which option best suits their needs. Continue reading to learn all about medical marijuana tinctures, including how they are made, tincture dosing, onset of effects, and duration of high. What Are Medical Marijuana Tinctures? Commonly referred to as green or golden dragon, medical marijuana tinctures are cannabis extracts that have been infused into an alcohol base. How Are Tinctures Made? Making a tincture involves soaking a cannabis flower in alcohol to infuse the two products into a liquid extract, with a high concentration of active cannabinoid compounds. How to Take Medical Marijuana Tinctures? Marijuana tinctures are taken sublingually and absorbed by the arterial blood supply under the tongue. This allows cannabinoid compounds to enter the bloodstream. Dosing is self-titrated. Accordingly, individuals should start by placing a 1 mL drop of the medical marijuana tincture under their tongue. If they are satisfied with the effects, they can maintain this dose. Otherwise, they can increase to 2 mL the next day and so on and so forth. What Are the Advantages? Tinctures are an ideal way for patients to reap the therapeutic effects of marijuana, without smoking. Additionally, this liquefied form of cannabis has a much lower caloric content than many edibles, including brownies and cookies. How Quickly Do They Work? Tincture effects can be felt within 15-45 minutes and will peak around 90 minutes. How Long Do Effects Last? Medical marijuana tinctures produce a high that lasts longer than smoking or vaping, but shorter than eating a butter or oil-based edible. Learn More About Medical Marijuana in Maryland For additional information about medical marijuana in Maryland, please contact Dispensary Works today.
5 Factors That Help Determine Medical Marijuana Prices
Medical Marijuana Prices Maryland If you are considering cannabis as a form of alternative medicine, you may have a number of questions, including: How much is medical marijuana and what affects medical marijuana prices? One of the key factors in determining marijuana prices is quantity. The gram is the standard unit with which marijuana is measured. Accordingly, a gram of marijuana is about the size of a bottle cap and can range between $9-$18 per gram. However, there are a several other things that can impact cannabis pricing. Here are 5 factors that affect medical marijuana prices. 1. Location The state in which you purchase cannabis can have a significant effect on medical marijuana costs. Not just due to geographic location, but also because of the state’s position on legalization. It’s also important to keep in mind the weather conditions in your area, as warmer climates are typically ideal for cannabis growth. 2. Where You Buy Not only is a registered dispensary, like Dispensary Works, more reputable, safer, and transparent than an individual seller, it also offers lower medical marijuana costs to clients. Additionally, because dispensaries operate under strict regulations and guidelines, you always know what you are getting. Compared to a person on the street that can be less forthcoming about the cannabis products they offer. 3. Quality of Medical Marijuana When it comes to medical marijuana prices, patients can expect to pay a higher price for premium-grade cannabis vs. lower quality weed. 4. When You Buy Outdoor cannabis is usually harvested in September, making fall an optimal time to purchase medical marijuana. That’s because in the weeks and months after a bountiful harvest, medical marijuana prices tend to be lower. 5. Where the Cannabis is Grown Cannabis that is grown outdoors is usually less expensive than that which is grown indoors. However, when grown in a controlled environment, certain variables can be isolated to produce a healthier and more natural product. Learn More About Medical Marijuana Prices If you would like additional information about medical cannabis and associated costs, please contact Dispensary Works today.
Terpene Power: The Amazing Medicinal Properties of Cannabis
Terpenes and Medical Marijuana Maryland Terpenes are organic compounds that bring fragrant flavors and smells to medical marijuana. They also behave synergistically with other cannabis compounds, which explains why products with similar cannabinoid properties produce different physical and psychoactive effects. To learn more about terpene power and the amazing medicinal properties of cannabis, read on. Here are 6 amazing therapeutic properties of cannabis terpenes. 1. Myrcene Has Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Properties In order to better understand terpenes and the amazing medicinal properties of cannabis, look no further than myrcene. Known for its spicy and herbal aroma, myrcene has the ability to alter permeability of cell membranes and increase or decrease the effects of other terpenes and cannabinoids. It also produces valuable anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects for a wide-variety of ailments. 2. Linalool Terpenes Alleviate Stress and Anxiety In addition to generating an enticing lavender scent, linalool is a terpene that reduces stress and anxiety levels. It also serves as an antidepressant, analgesic (pain-relief), antibacterial, anticonvulsant, and anti-tumor agent. 3. Pinene Offers Antimicrobial and Enhanced Mental Reasoning Alpha and beta are two types of pinene, which is the most common of all the terpenes. You may be familiar with alpha-pinene that is found in pine trees and produces its pine scent. Pinene’s antibacterial and cognitive capabilities are considered among the amazing medicinal properties of cannabis. In fact, this terpene can combat viruses and bacteria, including MRSA, and improve mental retention and focus. 4. Limonene Treats Gastric Reflux and Ulcers Limonene gives off a citrus aroma. It can heal mucous cells in the digestive tract and increase absorption of other terpenes. 5. Humulene Combats Cancer Cell Growth While humulene is often recognized for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and appetite-suppressing qualities, it’s greatest value comes from its ability to fight cancer. More specifically, humulene is able to oxidize cancer cells and slow their growth. 6. Borneol Terpenes Protect Against Cardiovascular Disease Borneol is not only known to decrease stress and pain, the earthy-scented terpene also serves as an anticoagulant and reduces the risk of heart disease. Learn More About Terpenes and Their Medicinal Properties If you would like to learn more about the amazing medicinal properties of cannabis in Maryland, please contact Dispensary Works today.
Marijuana and PTSD
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Marijuana Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a psychological condition that occurs following a traumatic event such as combat, sexual assault, and abuse. It is characterized by feelings of fear, nausea, dizziness, depression and/or sleep disturbances that persist for several weeks or longer after the harrowing experience. In many cases, medication and cognitive behavioral therapy are recommended to treat PTSD and provide symptomatic relief. While these techniques may be helpful for some, they are ineffective for others. Fortunately, research has demonstrated the benefits of medical cannabis for the treatment of PTSD. While studies are ongoing, here’s what is currently known about medical marijuana and PTSD. What Are the Characteristics of PTSD? Although each individual may present differently, there are three key characteristics of PTSD that are often observed. They include re-living of traumatic events, increased arousal, and avoidance, which is why it’s so closely linked to veterans. Medical Marijuana – How Does It Work? When it comes to understanding the therapeutic effects of medical marijuana, we must take a closer look at the endocannabinoid system in the brain. This complex network contains receptors which are activated by specific neurotransmitters, including anandamide. When anandamide and other chemical messengers bind to these receptors, they can suppress memory of stressful events and alleviate anxiety. With that being said, studies have shown that individuals with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder tend to have lower levels of anandamide and a greater amount of cannabinoid receptors. Accordingly, medical marijuana is able to mimic the effects of anandamide and activate cannabinoid receptors to produce anti-anxiolytic, hypnotic, and mood-elevating effects. What PTSD Symptoms Can Medical Marijuana Alleviate? Evidence has demonstrated a positive connection between medical marijuana and PTSD symptoms. More specifically, cannabis products with high levels of CBD have been shown to decrease anxiety and stress, while also boosting mood. In addition, medical marijuana’s ability to decrease REM sleep (the stage during which vivid dreaming takes place) may be able to help reduce nightmares associated with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder . Finally, many women and men who suffer from PTSD experience bouts or ongoing insomnia. THC is a cannabis compound that can not only decrease the time it takes to fall asleep, it can also improve the quality of sleep. Learn More About Medical Marijuana If you would like additional information about medical marijuana and PTSD, please contact Dispensary Works today.
Medical Marijuana Maryland-Licensed Dispensary FAQ
Maryland-Licensed Dispensary FAQ If you are a current medical cannabis patient in the state of Maryland or would like to become one, you may have questions about the policies, procedures, and regulations set forth by the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission. Continue reading for some of the most-common Maryland-licensed dispensary FAQ. What Services Will a Dispensary be Able to Provide? A Maryland-licensed dispensary will be authorized to distribute processed forms of medical cannabis as well as dried flower. In addition, they will be able to offer devices for consumption and delivery services. Can a Dispensary Lose Its License? Yes. Dispensaries will be routinely inspected by the Commission. If a major infraction is noted or if a dispensary fails an inspection, then they will be subjected to certain consequences. One of these consequences is the revocation of the dispensary’s license to dispense medical cannabis in Maryland. Why Do the Maryland Regulations Exclude “Food” from the Permissible Types of Medical Cannabis-Infused Products? Does This Mean That All Edible Forms of Medical Cannabis Are Banned? The Maryland Office of Food Safety currently regulates all food made or sold in the state. With that being said, there are not currently any regulations in place regarding the production of edible medical cannabis products. However, medical cannabis is available in extracts, oils, and tinctures, which can be used to make edible forms of medical cannabis at home. It is important that patients have proper education about edible dosing and effects prior to attempting this. What is a “Resident”? According to the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission, a resident is defined as a person who currently lives in the state of Maryland. Proof of residency can include: 1) Most recent Maryland tax return; 2) Most recent Maryland property tax bill; 3) Local gas and electric bill that is no more than 4 months old; 5) Valid Maryland Driver’s license or other documentation that serves as evidence of Maryland residency. Are the Required Patient Warnings Adequate, Especially the Warning Regarding the Question of the Safety of the Use of Medical Cannabis by Pregnant Women? The Commission believes that required patient warnings adequately advise medical marijuana patients to consume products with caution and avoid misuse. This stance extends to the safety of the use of medical cannabis by pregnant women. How Much Medical Cannabis and Medical Cannabis-Infused Product Can a Patient Obtain in 30 Days? In order to ensure that patients are able to obtain enough medical marijuana to manage their condition and associated symptoms, the Commission permits patients to obtain up to 120 grams of usable cannabis in 30 days. Want Additional Information About Maryland-Licensed Dispensary FAQ? Contact Dispensary Works today if you would like additional information about Maryland-licensed dispensary FAQ.
Medical Marijuana and Its Effect on Alzheimer’s Disease
Medical Marijuana Benefits in Maryland Evidence supporting the use of medical marijuana in the treatment of epilepsy has led to increased interest in cannabis’ mental and cognitive benefits, especially when it comes to Alzheimer’s Disease. In fact, researchers are in the early stages of evaluating medical marijuana as an alternative therapy for dementia. While clinical studies are ongoing, here’s what is currently known about medical marijuana and its effect on Alzheimer’s. What is Alzheimer’s? Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common type of dementia and accounts for approximately 60-80% of cases. The chronic neurodegenerative disease causes brain cell connections and the cells themselves to degenerate and die. This eventually interferes with a person’s ability to think, remember, and reason. The neurological changes associated with Alzheimer’s are believed to be the result of abnormal plaque and protein build-up, which impedes neuron connectivity. What’s more, these issues can begin 10 years before a patient becomes symptomatic. Current treatment protocols employ some form of cholinesterase inhibitor to manage Alzheimer’s disease and associated symptoms. Studies Supporting Medical Marijuana and Its Effects on Alzheimer’s Disease There have been several non-human participant studies on medical marijuana and its effects on Alzheimer’s. When mice with Alzheimer’s were exposed to THC, they demonstrated improved memory performance and reduced neuronal loss. Additionally, THC has been shown to help eliminate proteins that can contribute to Alzheimer’s in brain cells. Another study’s findings confirmed that THC prevents amyloid plaque from accumulating. Medical Marijuana as an Alternative Treatment for Alzheimer’s Disease In addition to its therapeutic benefits, many are interested in the economic advantages of medical marijuana for Alzheimer’s treatment. While patients can pay upwards of $500 for a 30-day supply of traditional Alzheimer’s medication, a low dose edible or oral CBD product would be much more affordable. What’s more, cannabis could also help patients avoid side effects that are common with cholinesterase inhibitors. In light of these findings, larger-scale, human-based studies on medical marijuana and its effect on Alzheimer’s are on the horizon. Learn More About the Therapeutic Effects of Medical Marijuana If you would like additional information about the cognitive and mental benefits of medical marijuana maryland, please contact Dispensary Works today.
