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Learn More about Your Cannabis Options

Medical Cannabis Science

Cannabinoids: The chemical compounds found in cannabis that interact with receptors (CB1 and CB2) in the brain and body to produce a variety of effects. There are over a hundred known cannabinoids, but the two most common are Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD).

• THC (Intoxicating): Recent studies have proven that THC has proven highly effective in dealing with a number of medical conditions, especially chronic pain and depression.

• CBD (Non-Intoxicating): CBD is the non-psychoactive cannabinoid that is highly effective in combating dyskinesia, anxiety, and inflammation, among others. Research has shown that when combined with THC, the synergistic effects of the cannabinoids produce the most effective medical benefits. There are numerous over-the-counter options for CBD, but they are not tested as rigorously the products available on the Maryland Medical Cannabis market.

Endocannabinoid System: The human endocannabinoid system has two types of receptors that uniquely receive THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids. The CB1 and CB2 receptors impact physiological processes that affect pain modulation, appetite, memory, anti-inflammatory response, and other immune system responses. These receptors are found on cell surfaces and are present in everybody. However, given that each body is different, there are a wide range of reactions to these cannabinoids.

Although our bodies produce their own molecules that interact with the CB receptors (endogenous), the molecules found in cannabis (exogenous) are also perfectly engineered to interact with these same receptors.

• CB1: Receives THC molecules — These receptors are concentrated in the brain, central nervous system, and scattered throughout other bodily tissue. They mediate many of the psychoactive effects associated with cannabis.

• CB2: Receives CBN and CBD molecules — These receptors are found in peripheral organs and cells associated with the immune system throughout the body. The highest concentration of these receptors is in the gut (gastrointestinal tract).

• Myrcene: Described as earthy and musky, this terpene is prevalent in almost every strain of cannabis and is known to enhance THC uptake in the body. Myrcene is also found in mango, hops, thyme, and citrus.

  • Medicinal Value: analgesic, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, muscle relaxant, sedative, sleep aid

  • Aroma: earth, flowers, pungent

• Caryophyllene: Known to have an aroma that is peppery, woody, and spicy, this is the only terpene proven to interact with the human endocannabinoid system through the CB2 receptor. Also found in basil, oregano, pepper, and cinnamon.

  • Medicinal Value: : analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, protects cells lining digestive tract, sleep aid

  • Aroma: citrus, spice

• Limonene: Common in Sativa varieties, it is associated with mood elevation. It can also be found in citrus rinds, juniper, and mint. Limonene has a unique ability to speed up the absorption of other terpenes in the body.

  • Medicinal Value: anti-anxiety, anti-depressant, anti-fungal, anxiolytic, gastroesophageal reflux

  • Aroma: citrus, spice

• Terpinolene: With a piney aroma including notes of herbs and wildflowers, this terpene is a useful insect repellent. It is also found in rosemary, sage, and cypress. Terpinolene has been shown to exhibit anti-cancer and tranquilizing effects.

  • Medicinal Value: analgesic, anti-proliferative, digestive aid, pain reduction, sedative, stomachic

  • Aroma: anise, herbal, lime, pine

• Terpineol: Because of its pleasant aroma of lilac and flower blossoms, it is often used in cosmetic products. It is frequently found in higher concentrations alongside pinene, which may mask its scent.

  • Medicinal Value: anti-anxiety, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, calming aid, immunostimulant

  • Aroma: citrus, lilac, wood

• Linalool: This terpene’s hallmark is its floral scent, reminiscent of sharp and sweet wildflowers. It is also found in lavender, laurel, birch, and rosewood. It has calming and sedative properties, which can help relieve anxiety.

  • Medicinal Value: analgesic, anesthetic, anti-anxiety, anti-convulsive, anti-depressant, anti-epileptic

  • Aroma: citrus, floral, lavender, spice

• Ocimene: Found in a wide variety of botanicals, it is known for its sweet and woody scent. Plants use ocimene to defend themselves against pests in nature. It is also found in mint, parsley, pepper, basil, orchids, and kumquats.

  • Medicinal Value: anti-fungal, anti-septic, anti-viral, bactrericidal, decongestant

  • Aroma: citrus, tropical fruit, wood

• Humulene: Another strong contributor to the earthy aroma of cannabis, this terpene is also present in hops and coriander. Humulene can act as an appetite suppressant and has potent anti-inflammatory abilities.

  • Medicinal Value: analgesic, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory

  • Aroma: earth, herbaceous, robust

• Geraniol: With a delightfully sweet smell akin to roses, this terpene is present in geraniums, lemons, and tobacco and is often used in perfumes and other cosmetics. It is also an effective mosquito repellent.

  • Medicinal Value: anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-oxidant, anti-spasmodic, anti-viral, neuroprotective

  • Aroma: floral, fruity, rosy

Consumption Methods

Flower: The most common form of cannabis made from the dried buds of the plant, it is the least-concentrated of the available products. There are three distinct plant varieties: Indica, Sativa, and Ruderalis. Indicas are often used to bring relaxation, ease pain, and assist sleep. Sativas provide energy, focus, and a creative spark. Ruderalis is quite rare and not commonly sold in medical cannabis dispensaries. Dried cannabis flower is normally inhaled as smoke or vapor from a pipe, joint, bong, or vaporizer.

Extract: Cannabis extracts include any product procured through an extraction process. Solvents such as butane, CO2, and ethanol pull compounds from the cannabis plant, creating products that have a concentration of cannabinoids. Dabbable products like wax, shatter, sugar, and budder fall within this category and are popular for their clear flavors and the high THC and CBD content.

Tincture: Liquid cannabis extracts are used by patients looking for dosage control and fast-acting effects without the health risks associated with smoking. Most commonly, alcohol is used as the solvent (any proof greater than 80 can be used effectively), but other fat-soluble liquids can be used as well, such as vinegar or glycerol. Generally, three or four drops of the tincture are placed under the tongue, where it is absorbed into the body rather than being swallowed and digested. When ingested, tinctures are immediately absorbed in an empty stomach. However, they require time to process through the liver, in turn reducing dosage control.

Digestible: Any tablet, capsule, food, or beverage infused with cannabis and consumed orally goes through the digestive process. This activates another form of the THC molecule, making it stronger and longer-lasting.

Topical: Cannabis-infused creams, lotions and balms are absorbed through the skin for localized effects. While most topicals are not considered intoxicating, there are transdermal options which can break the blood brain barrier and have intoxicating effects in high doses.

Use cases for medical cannabis

• Lyme disease

• Crohn's disease

• Severe sleep disorders

• Crippling anxiety

• Nausea induced by chemotherapy

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Fibromyalgia

• Alzheimer's disease

We have collected various studies and reports related to the medical benefits of cannabis in our Research Library.

As new research is made public, we will continue to build our library.