Arguments Against Medicinal Marijuana

It has been said that medicinal marijuana was first used around 2000 B.C. and then became practically nonexistent after 1937 when the Marijuana Tax Act banned the drug in the United States (Webley). Since then, the use of marijuana has mostly been considered as recreational. Currently, science is proving that there may be more to marijuana than simply recreational use. Researchers are proving that marijuana in different forms can ease symptoms of many diseases as well as potentially cure some diseases and illnesses (Merino). Although, there is scientific proof that medicinal marijuana could hold great significance concerning health care and medicine there is still blurred lines when it comes to what is legal concerning medicinal marijuana …show more content…
There has been enough research to lead the FDA to approve cannabinoids which are chemicals that are in marijuana. There are currently two FDA approved medications that contain cannabinoids (Merino). The two cannabinoids that are heavily researched are THC and CBD. THC can increase appetite and reduce nausea which is great for patients undergoing chemotherapy. It also can decrease pain, inflammation, and problems with muscle control, like Parkinson’s disease or Tourette’s (Merino). CBD doesn’t control the mind or behavior or give a sense of euphoria. It has been found to help reduce pain and inflammation, control seizures caused by epilepsy, mental illness and addiction (Merino). These two cannabinoids alone could give many patients relief and for some, a whole new life. There are clinical trials underway that are testing marijuana to treat autoimmune diseases, Alzheimer’s disease, inflammation, pain, seizures, addiction, as well as mental disorders (Merino). If these clinical trials show marijuana could even slightly improve these terrible symptoms and conditions it could be revolutionary in changing the lives of patients who are suffering in the United States. There is much question about which forms of marijuana should be used for medicinal purposes. Dr. Kathryn Villano of Miami said, “I think marijuana has been shown to be very safe, particularly if it’s not smoked.” (Ostrowski). Thankfully, there are many ways to use marijuana for medicinal purposes without smoking it. There are concentrated oils, sprays that can be applied to the mucous membranes, and pills containing cannabinoids. Medicinal marijuana is a wonderful asset to the healthcare community and with more research there could be a cure to many more illnesses than we