Why Medical Marijuana May be Right for You

Are you curious about medical marijuana and whether it could help with your illness or mental health condition? When used under a doctor’s care, it’s a powerful healing tool, and its therapeutic properties can improve your quality of life.

That’s why board-certified psychiatrist Dr. Michael Gentile ​​at Wyckoff Wellness Center in Wyckoff, New Jersey, includes medical marijuana as part of psychiatric treatment, when appropriate. 

In this month’s blog, we explain how medical marijuana, also known as cannabis, affects your brain. We also debunk a few myths about it and explore why it might be right for you. 

The science behind cannabis

Did you know you were actually built for cannabinoids? It’s true. Your brain has an endocannabinoid system that regulates your sleep, pain, mood, and appetite. 

Cannabis is loaded with helpful compounds like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) that work in tandem with your endocannabinoid system, helping to restore balance wherever it’s needed.

THC vs. CBD

THC and CBD are found in cannabis plants and work in their own ways in your body. CBD reduces anxiety and inflammation. Because it’s not psychoactive, there are no euphoric effects with it.

THC is the psychoactive component that gives you a high, but also relieves nausea and pain.

Dr. Gentile works with you to understand your medical history and health goals so he can tailor a blend with precise ratios of THC and CBD to address your specific condition.

Who can benefit from medical marijuana? 

If you experience any of the following mental health benefits, you may be a candidate for cannabis therapy:

• Anxiety and PTSD — helps calm your mind and quiet your traumatic memories
• Depression — boosts your mood and encourages relaxation
• Insomnia — helps you get much-needed rest due to its sedative effects 

If you experience any of the following physical health benefits, you may be a candidate for cannabis therapy:

• Gastrointestinal issues — relief from nausea and symptoms of Crohn’s disease and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Chronic pain — alleviates chronic pain associated with arthritis, recurring headaches, and fibromyalgia
• Neurological disorders — mitigates the physical effects of epilepsy, essential tremors, and Parkinson’s disease

Dr. Gentile conducts a thorough assessment of your overall health to determine how your mental and physical health issues may respond to medical marijuana.

How to use medical marijuana

Gone are the days when you had to pass a bong or roll a joint to get the benefits of marijuana. Dr. Gentile prescribes medical marijuana in many forms:

• Edibles
• Vaping
• Topicals
• Oils
• Balms

Another popular way to use medical marijuana is as a tincture under your tongue.

Common myths

Dr. Gentile debunks a few of the most common myths and misconceptions about medical marijuana.

Myth: Medical marijuana will make me become a couch potato

Not exactly. Some strains can boost your energy and increase your productivity.

Myth: It’s an excuse to get high

Cannabis is a viable alternative to pharmaceuticals. Hundreds of our patients use it for pressing health concerns and have no interest in the high. 

Myth: It’s illegal

With a doctor’s order, medical marijuana is legal in New Jersey and many other states. 

Is it right for you?

If you’ve tried other treatments but you’re still struggling with arthritis, depression, PTSD, or other health conditions that wreak havoc on your daily life, medical marijuana may be the solution for you. 

Call our office to set up a consultation or request an appointment through our online portal.