Part Three

Exploring Cannabis as a Natural Alternative to Pharmaceuticals

The topic that sparks debates and creates a division is whether New Zealand should legalize cannabis. Some New Zealanders opposed it, preventing its legalization. While there is access to medical cannabis through a prescription from a doctor, the cost is out of reach for some people.

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in exploring cannabis as a natural alternative to traditional pharmaceuticals. With the increasing legalization of cannabis for medical and recreational use in many parts of the world, researchers and healthcare professionals are looking into the potential benefits of this plant for treating a variety of health conditions.

Les go back in time

Cannabis has a rich and ancient history that stretches back thousands of years. The earliest known evidence of cannabis use dates back to around 10,000 years ago in ancient Taiwan, where remnants of hemp cord have been found in pottery. This suggests that cannabis was among the first plants to be cultivated by humans, primarily for its fibers, which were used in making ropes, textiles, and other essential items.

In ancient China, around 2737 BCE, cannabis began to be recognized for its medicinal properties. Emperor Shen Nung, often referred to as the "Father of Chinese Medicine," included cannabis in his pharmacopeia, recommending it for various ailments such as gout, rheumatism, and malaria. From China, the use of cannabis spread to India, where it became deeply entrenched in religious and cultural practices. Ancient texts such as the Atharva Veda, written around 1500 BCE, mention cannabis as one of the five sacred plants, highlighting its spiritual significance.

The spread of cannabis continued through the Silk Road, reaching the Middle East and eventually Europe. In ancient Greece and Rome, cannabis was used for its medicinal properties and for making strong ropes and sails. By the Middle Ages, it had become a staple crop in many parts of Europe. The plant's versatility and wide range of applications have ensured its continuous presence throughout human history, influencing various cultures and societies along the way.

The Science Behind Cannabis

Cannabis, also known as marijuana, contains compounds called cannabinoids that interact with the body's endocannabinoid system. The two main cannabinoids found in cannabis are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is known for its psychoactive effects, while CBD is non-psychoactive and has been studied for its potential therapeutic properties.

My own Personal View

The question is what are the benefits of cannabis great for pain management,reducing inflammation, sleep management, mental disorders and the brain the list is endless if we go back in time it was used as a medical plant and not to get high and i think that where people need to do bit of researching before making a judgement, personally i have taken to this alternative medicine the doctors have over prescribed me for years with ibuprofen and Naproxen and other medications and has left me with gastritis this is where my stomach lining is near gone and inflamed, red i had to change my diet and i have reflux to boot and trust me it sucks ass, im all for legalising as a person with chronic pain cannabis gets me through the worst days and i have CBD as well i have to be criminal to feel better as none of this is not legal in New Zealand, we have amazing people called green fairy's that make amazing products and helps so many people but again its legal, it makes no sense to me at all i know there is the bad with cannabis and some people are complete dicks on it but that is only a small portion,

Trying to live in a body that fights you daily with pain, nausea, and an endless list of challenges can be overwhelming. Our desire is not to seek a high but to simply feel somewhat normal for just one day. Isn't that a modest request?

Benefits of Cannabis as a Natural Alternative

1. Pain Management: One of the most well-known uses of cannabis is for pain relief. Studies have shown that cannabis can be effective in managing chronic pain, neuropathic pain, and inflammatory pain conditions.

2. Anxiety and Depression: CBD has been found to have anxiolytic and antidepressant properties, making it a potential alternative for those struggling with anxiety and depression.

3. Epilepsy: CBD has gained attention for its anticonvulsant properties, with the FDA approving a CBD-based medication for the treatment of certain types of epilepsy.

4. Sleep Disorders: Cannabis has been used to improve sleep quality and help with insomnia, with some strains specifically bred for their sedative effects.

5. Anti-inflammatory Properties: CBD has shown promise in reducing inflammation, making it a potential option for conditions such as arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.