As more and more countries around the world legalize cannabis for medicinal purposes, there has been a growing interest in the potential benefits of this plant to treat a variety of health problems.
Here in Barcelona, we have a thriving marijuana culture and a variety of options for people looking to access medical or recreational cannabis thanks to the decriminalization of marijuana throughout Spain. In this article, we will explore the medical cannabis landscape, including the various ways people can obtain and use cannabis for therapeutic purposes in Barcelona.
Medicinal benefits of cannabis
Because some of the cannabinoids found in the plant can bind to receptors found in our endocannabinoid system (the CB1 and CB2 receptors found in the brain and skin), they can also help regulate the response of neurons to an excitatory signal such as pain, seizures or brain tremors. That is why these cannabinoids can help treat neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, ALS, or help with post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression and reduce pain in cancer or arthritis patients. Cannabinoids not only help with pain and inflammation, but can also be used to treat nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy, which improves the oncology patient's quality of life and helps them get through treatment.
Responsible use
While there is evidence that cannabis can be effective in the treatment of various health conditions, there is still ongoing research on the subject. The impracticality - for lack of another word - of marijuana becoming illegal in the 20th century has set us back considerably in terms of scientific research and much information is still lacking regarding the correct dosage or exact functioning of certain cannabinoids. This is why we must be cautious and responsible in our use of cannabis and if we want to use it for medicinal purposes never do so without the supervision of our healthcare provider, and always seek out the highest quality products from trusted suppliers.
Quality products
Fortunately, one of the most attractive aspects of Barcelona's cannabis culture is the abundance of high quality cannabis available. Whether you're looking for flowers, concentrates or edibles, you can find a wide range of excellent products at marijuana clubs and dispensaries throughout the city. The quality of cannabis in Barcelona is widely regarded as some of the best in the world, thanks in part to the city's ideal climate for cannabis cultivation and the expertise of local growers.
To join a marijuana club in Barcelona, you will usually need to be recommended by an existing member or apply for an invitation directly to the club on their website. Once you are a member, you can have access to cannabis products for personal use and a space where members meet to smoke or consume cannabis, usually in a social setting.
Catching up
We have been unaware of the potential health benefits of cannabis for some time now. Fortunately, the world is changing and, although much research is still needed to know the exact doses and extract greater efficacy from cannabinoid treatments, at least now many people have that extra option: the possibility of using cannabis derivatives to treat their disease, which is especially important for those patients who do not respond well to traditional medication.
Conclusion
We are fortunate to live in Barcelona, where cannabis culture offers a unique and exciting opportunity for people seeking access to marijuana for any of its uses. We can only hope that everyone does so responsibly and, if for medicinal purposes, that they do so under the proper advice and supervision of a health professional.
