Marijuana: The Healing Herb

Cannabis has been "used since antiquity for both herbal medication and intoxication," according to a 1999 study commissioned by the Institute of Medicine (IOM), a Washington, D.C.-based component of the National Academy of Sciences.

There is scientific evidence that [marijuana] helps with pain relief and nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy, for example, in terminal cancer patients. In addition, some HIV/AIDS patients suffering from decreased appetites use marijuana to "get the munchies," another oft-noted effect of the drug. Medical Cannabis is also used to treat spasticity, painful neurogenic conditions, movement disorders, asthma, and glaucoma. As with any drug, the individual is left with what works best for him or her. A doctor should always be consulted in these matters. It is absolutely advised not to go out and purchase illegal or street marijuana because there is no way of verifying the quality of product or the purity of the product one is receiving.

Although the main kick to marijuana is a chemical known as THC, and THC is found both in marinol and cesamet, it is important to note that marijuana is a plant, an herb made of a huge number and combination of active ingredients and chemicals including cannabinoid substances.