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We’ve put together an easy-to-digest guide on cannabis. It explores different strains, cannabinoids and their effects, different methods of consumption and potential benefits!
Since 2018, medical cannabis has been legally available on prescription through licensed clinics like Alternaleaf for 50+ conditions.
What is cannabis?
Cannabis is a plant cultivated for thousands of years for its medicinal and nutritional applications. Cannabis flower contains hundreds of active chemical compounds called cannabinoids that can cause drug-like effects throughout the body.
These compounds work by interacting with the central nervous system, the immune system, and your endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a messenger and receptor system that is integral to homeostasis (the management of balance) within the human body. It influences and modulates pretty much every single function within your body, directing, correcting and managing your overall health.
One of the core components of the ECS are the cannabinoid receptors, which includes CB1 and CB2. They’re one of the main reasons behind why medical cannabis might work so positively on so many different conditions. Many experts believe that, by consuming cannabinoids, it’s possible to interact with these receptors.
Key components & their benefits
Tetrahydrocannabinolis (THC) is one of the natural compounds you’ll see a lot when researching medical cannabis. THC is psychoactive and can produce a ‘high’. It’s responsible for many of the psychological effects of medical cannabis.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is the second natural compound you’ve probably heard of. It’s a non-intoxicating cannabinoid present in hemp and cannabis plants (which are members of the same species but have different textures and characteristics). So, it can’t produce any psychoactive effects on its own.
Sativa strains historically contained less CBD and more THC content. It was thought to cause more energising effects, which, in many people, can positively impact mood and creativity. It’s why people often choose to consume sativa based strains or products in the daytime.
Indica strains tended to have higher levels of CBD when grown and found in their purest form. This can provide a ‘body high’ that helps relieve pain and aid sleep. It’s why people often choose to consume indica based strains or products at night.
However, as cannabis research continues to progress, the idea that sativa is energising and indica is sedating is being challenged. The majority of cannabis strains available today are hybrids, blending characteristics of both subspecies. Relying on just indica or just sativa, can be very misleading. We're moving away from certain subspecies determining the effects of medical cannabis, and instead moving towards the chemical composition of the plant, including cannabinoids and terpenes.
Terpenes are the compounds naturally found in every plant that give them their individual smells and flavours. And this includes the cannabis plant. However, they also have medicinal uses. Terpenes work in holistic harmony with cannabinoids and other compounds in cannabis, helping everything to operate more effectively overall. This is known as the entourage effect.
Whilst there’s evidence to give a general idea of how both THC, CBD and terpenes may react within the body, a lot more research is needed. And remember, they can affect every individual differently.
Methods of Consumption
Vaporisers: This method of consumption provides rapid onset of effects, typically within minutes, making it suitable for immediate relief of symptoms such as pain. You can purchase a dry herb vaporiser through a licensed clinic like Alternaleaf or Montu Pharmacy.
Cannabis Edibles & Capsules: Consuming cannabis-infused ‘edibles’, like pastilles, or soft gel capsules, results in slower onset of effects, which can take between 1 to 2 hours. This method is ideal for longer-lasting relief.
Oils and Tinctures: Placing cannabis oil or tincture under the tongue provides a faster onset than edibles, usually within 15 to 30 minutes, and, like edible options, relief tends to last.
Cannabis Topicals (Creams, Balms, Patches): Applying cannabis-infused products directly to the skin targets localised pain and inflammation. Please note, you should only ever apply a medication topically if it has been advised by your doctor. The majority of medical cannabis products available for prescription are for consumption via inhalation or sublingually only. There are currently no topical products available for prescription at the time of writing this article.
Smoking your prescription is illegal in the UK and could lead to lung damage.
Potential Benefits of Cannabis
Pain management
Medical cannabis works by harnessing cannabinoids (compounds found in the cannabis plant) to bind to pain receptors and nerve cells, then slow down the pain response. This, in turn, may ease discomfort for some people.
Anxiety and stress relief
In a recent trial of 300 adults with anxiety, both THC and CBD-dominant cannabis helped reduce some people’s anxiety.
Sleep aid
In a 2021 observational trial participants self-reported a drop in depression symptoms, alongside less pain, better sleep and improved quality of life.
Appetite stimulation
Medical cannabis also has the potential to improve appetite, increase nutrient absorption and stimulate the appetite.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Various studies support the claim that medical cannabis is an effective anti-inflammatory.
For example it’s been seen to ease symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and multiple sclerosis (MS) alike.
Legality & Regulations
Medical cannabis has been legal in the UK since 1st November 2018, but it needs to be prescribed by a specialist doctor. To be eligible, you’ll need a diagnosis for a qualifying condition such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression, ADHD or autism.
Just because it’s legal in the UK, doesn’t mean it’s legal everywhere. It is always a good idea to check if you’re travelling somewhere, what their rules and laws are around medical cannabis.
As with any other medication, it’s important to use safely and responsibly. Our advice is to always start low and go slow. This allows new patients to get used to their medicines with minimal side effects and disruption to everyday life.
Employment
Employment laws generally protect employees who require prescription medications for medical conditions under the Equality Act 2010 (UK). Employers must make reasonable adjustments to accommodate an employee's medical needs.
However, it's equally important to review your employment contract or company policies. Transparency with your employer can help ensure a supportive and compliant working relationship. If in doubt, seek advice from HR or a legal professional to understand your rights and responsibilities fully.
Be mindful of potential side effects
Most common side effects are short-term, and should wear off within a few hours. These include:
- Coughing
- Bloodshot or irritated eyes
- Increased appetite
- Dry mouth or thirst
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Nausea
- Feeling tired
- Blurred vision
If you experience any side effects, or if short-term side effects persist, stop taking your medication immediately, and speak to your clinician.
Never drive under the influence
Try and monitor how you respond to your medication, and make an informed decision on whether or not you think it’s safe to drive before even getting in a car.
Being prescribed plant based medicine provides you with a medical defence under Section 5a, Part 3 of the Road Traffic Act (RTA). However, this defence only applies if you are not impaired by your medication.
If you’re consuming as prescribed, your driving is not impaired, and the police are satisfied you’re following the advice of a healthcare professional, you should not be prosecuted.
Where possible, keep a copy of your prescription with you and have your medication in its original packaging.
Summary
Cannabis can be a valuable tool for pain management, health, and wellness when used responsibly. Understanding its effects, consumption methods, and legal status will help make informed decisions on whether or not you think it's right for you.