When it comes to health, “cannabis” is the new buzzword. Though this all-natural plant has been around for thousands of years, it’s certainly experienced its fair share of ups and downs. Cannabis was widely popular among American physicians in the 1800s. Even Big Pharma utilized the plant medicinally; but once drugs like aspirin and morphine proved to be more lucrative, the demonization of cannabis soon followed.
By 1936, nearly all U.S. states had enacted laws restricting cannabis, some of which are still in effect today. However, today, a new and more accepting attitude surrounds cannabis, particularly regarding its medical benefits as science continues to illustrate its jack-of-all trades nature when it comes to medicine.
We now understand that cannabis effectively combats cancer, reduces seizures, manages pain and minimizes inflammation. Not only is it advantageous for treating pre-existing conditions, but it contains preventive health benefits as well.
Optimal health
“Cannabis also works as an antioxidant, antibacterial, antimicrobial, and a mood elevator, fighting both physical and emotional maladies,” reports Green Flower. “The reason why cannabis has such a vast range of health properties lies within the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
“The health of the ECS is vital for homeostasis – the stable functioning of all our physiological processes, including appetite, sensitivity to pain, emotions, bone growth, fertility and so much more.”
Interestingly, the human body actually produces its own supply of cannabinoids, or endocannabinoids rather; however, as Green Flower illustrates, it’s often not enough to keep the ECS functioning optimally.
“We are finding that endocannabinoid deficiencies are the root of many types of illness, be it physical or mental. This is where cannabis comes in. The major cannabinoids in this plant work in concert with the ECS to promote the homeostasis that we depend on to thrive.”
Because there are so many strains, as well as different methods of consumption, deciding what type to use and how to use it can be overwhelming. However, the following tips from Green Flower are sure to improve the user’s experience:
1) Choosing a method of consumption
To get the highest degree of health benefits, try ditching the traditional method of smoking cannabis for more health-conscious alternatives, such as vaporizing, tinctures, topicals, and edibles. Vaporizing cannabis can be great for beginners because the effects are almost immediate, which makes it easy to titrate your dosage levels.
2) Find your optimal dosage level
Everybody has a unique optimal dosage level with cannabis. Some people require higher doses, some require lower doses. The important thing is to experiment and to be mindful about what works best for you.
The truth is people over-consume cannabis all the time, taking much more than their body needs. The outcomes of this are not fatal or physically threatening, but it can definitely get in the way of other parts of your life. Taking too much cannabis over time can also minimize the benefits and impede productivity.
3) Know what cannabis you’re consuming
Ideally, you’ll know how and where your cannabis was grown. When buying cannabis from a dispensary, for example, you want to make sure that it’s a reputable establishment. And you want to ask plenty of questions about their lab testing practices.
Cannabis that has been grown and sold irresponsibly can potentially contain any number of contaminants such as mold, mildew, insects, pesticides, or dirt – none of these things are part of holistic health!
4) Be mindful about how, why, and when you use cannabis
If you’re using cannabis for your general wellbeing, it’s important to be mindful in your approach to the plant and to avoid misuse. Always think about why you want to use cannabis and determine whether or not it will add value to the moment or current situation.
In other words, you always want to make sure you approach the cannabis experience with the right kind of mindset and in the right environment. This kind of intent is a big part of how you can tap into cannabis as a wellness supplement.
Other practices that can benefit your health and wellness when combined with cannabis include but are not limited to:
- Nature Walks
- Gentle or Restorative Yoga
- Meditation
- Dancing
- Painting or doodling
- Journaling
- Good conversation
- Healthy diet
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