Dr. Fran Kendall is a Clinical Biochemical Geneticist and Founder of VMP Genetics. She is also an Adjunct Assistant Professor at the University of Georgia and authored the book Shades of Grief: Echoes of Hope from the Darkness. Dr. Kendall shares her insight and knowledge on the topic of medical marijuana and how it can be used to aid in medical issues.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
What is the history of using medical marijuana?
Marijuana was brought to North America in the early 1600’s. Marijuana was known for its medicinal value until 1952 when the government became criminalizing the use of marijuana, resulting in a negative perception of marijuana. In 1996 California legalized the use of medical marijuana and in 2012 Colorado legalized the use of medical and recreational marijuana. More and more states have moved towards legalizing marijuana use, but it remains banned in Wyoming, Kansas, Idaho and South Carolina. The biggest problem we face is, because of criminalization in the past, cannabis is still listed as a schedule 1 substance— a chemical or drug that has no medicinal value, is highly addictive and linked to abuse.
What health benefits does marijuana have for mitochondrialRelated to the mitochondria. disease patients?
Marijuana was first used in the mitochondrial disease community for treating seizuresEpisodes of abnormal electrical activity in the brain., often having improved control or complete stabilization, allowing patients to reduce anticonvulsant medications, which have a lot of negative side effects. We’ve seen a reduction of anxiety and depressionIt is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest., improved focus and concentration, and better pain management.
How do you choose what product to use?
In some states, there aren’t product options, but other states, like California or Colorado have a lot of options. You will need to educate yourself about different products. You may have to do some level of trial and error to find what works best for you.
LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED
Shades of Grief: Echoes of Hope from the Darkness
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