In an AltMed podcast first, Mitch and Andrew from Phytoca run through Basics of Cannabis 101. Addressing the frequently asked questions around this stigmatised industry, Mitch and Andrew clear the air about the many uses of cannabinoids, and how this natural alternative is fitting into the landscape of Australian medicine.
Although Cannabis is most commonly associated with recreational use, cannabinoid products come in multiple forms. Hemp plants have diverse applications and are commonly used for textiles, building materials, beauty and skin products and ‘superfoods’. At Altmed, we focus on how CBD can be utilised for its medicinal properties.
Cannabis, when used medicinally, comes in multiple forms and has been used as a treatment for a vast variety of health issues. THC, the principal psychoactive chemical component of cannabis interacts with biological receptors in the body to bring on a muscle relaxant effect. patients often take the product to reduce nausea, muscle spasticity and pain. Growing research shows the benefits of CBD oil as a pain reliever, reducing the symptoms of inflammation, anxiety and seizures. Medicinal CBD was therefore legalised in Australia as an alternative remedy for epilepsy and seizures. The product might come as an oil that is dropped under the patient’s tongue, it might be smoked with a vape or it could come as a water-soluble oil that is mixed into the patient’s beverage.
Introduction to Basics of Cannabis Key Points
0:01 – Andrew welcomes everyone to the podcast highlighting the basics of medicinal cannabis.
0:31 – Mitch explains that the chat will be a casual update about the industry and assistance breaking down the relevant legislation.
2:15 – Mitch explains that cannabis is basically a flower plant from the same family as hops. He clarifies that cannabis possesses numerous beneficial applications for medicinal purposes. Mitch also describes its extensive uses in manufacturing and beauty industry.
5:34 – Mitch is of the view that the medicinal cannabis sector is moving by leaps and bounds, especially in Australia. Mitch spells out that generally consumed in the form of hemp, CBD and THD, medicinal cannabis deals with a number of neurological and psychological ailments as well.
8:34 – Mitch delved into the Endocannabinoid System in the human body. He also described that every plant has a different reaction on human body.
10:31 – Mitch is of the view that THC, which is the most commonly known cannabis drug, provides a psychoactive experience that may also deliver relaxation. He also makes it clear that THC is particularly effective for cancer patients, muscle pain, insomnia and anxiety etc.
13:26 – Mitch also throws light on CBD, which is a non-psychoactive compound, and explains that it may reduce inflammation, anxiety and seizures.
15:32 – Andrew expounds upon the difference between cannabis, hemp oil and Marijuana. He reminds the audience that while cannabis is the universal term for plant, hemp seeds have low level of THC and are normally found in food products. Conversely, marijuana is used medicinally or recreationally.
17:51 – Andrew explains the confusion around CBD that is described as hemp oil products in the black market.
18:30 – Mitch agrees and terms the illegal status of CBD oil in Australia as the major reason.
For more information about Basics of Cannabis:
https://www.odc.gov.au/manufacturers-and-suppliers-medicinal-cannabis-products
https://www.druglibrary.org/schaffer/library/studies/aus/can_ch3_5.htm