About
At Rooted Remedies, we believe in empowering individuals with knowledge. Our team of medical cannabis experts is committed to providing accurate, evidence-based resources to guide patients and healthcare professionals.
our vision
To normalise medical cannabis as a therapeutic option and improve patient outcomes through education.
What Is Medical Cannabis?
Medical cannabis refers to cannabis products prescribed by a healthcare professional to treat specific medical conditions. These products contain cannabinoids, natural compounds found in the cannabis plant, including:
- Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): The psychoactive component responsible for the “high.”
- Cannabidiol (CBD): A non-psychoactive compound with anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
The Endocannabinoid System: Key to Understanding Cannabis
What Is the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)?
The ECS is a complex cell-signalling system present in the human body. It regulates essential functions such as:
- Mood
- Appetite
- Sleep
- Immune response
- Pain management
The ECS consists of:
- Endocannabinoids: Natural cannabinoids produced by the body.
- Receptors: CB1 and CB2 receptors located throughout the brain and body.
- Enzymes: Responsible for breaking down endocannabinoids after they have performed their function.
How Cannabis Interacts with the ECS
Cannabinoids in medical cannabis mimic the body’s natural endocannabinoids, binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors to produce therapeutic effects:
- CB1 Receptors: Found mainly in the brain and nervous system, influencing mood, memory, and pain.
- CB2 Receptors: Located in the immune system, impacting inflammation and immune responses.
Example: A patient with arthritis may benefit from CBD interacting with CB2 receptors to reduce inflammation and pain.
Benefits of Medical Cannabis
Pain Relief
THC and CBD work together to reduce chronic pain by targeting pain receptors and reducing inflammation.
Anxiety and Depression Management
CBD’s calming effects on the nervous system make it effective for reducing anxiety and improving mood.
Neurological Conditions
Medical cannabis has shown promise in treating epilepsy and multiple sclerosis, with CBD-based medications like Epidyolex gaining approval for seizures.
Nausea and Appetite Stimulation
THC is often prescribed for chemotherapy patients to alleviate nausea and stimulate appetite.
Scientific Evidence
A 2020 study published in The Journal of Pain highlighted that medical cannabis significantly reduced pain in patients with chronic conditions compared to traditional treatments.
Common Forms of Medical Cannabis
- Oils and Tinctures: Ideal for precise dosing.
- Capsules: Convenient and discreet for long-term use.
- Vapourisers: Provide fast relief, especially for acute pain.
- Topicals: Applied to the skin for localised pain relief.
Example: A patient with back pain may use a combination of oral CBD and a THC-infused topical cream for comprehensive relief.
