Dear Future President,

Joints, blunts, smoking and getting high, these are all things that people instantly think of when they hear marijuana. The idea of marijuana being legal brings up many red flags but few people consider what it can really help with. Many people believe that marijuana is an intense and harmful drug; however, there are widespread benefits that come from legalizing it medically.

Recreational marijuana is legal in four states and medical marijuana is legal in only twenty five. Medical cannabis can come in different forms and in different dosages depending on a person’s condition. In order to obtain this type of treatment a person must first follow a procedure; they must be a resident and provide evidence that they are and their condition must be eligible before finding a doctor that can sign the forms. Once a patient gets all of the required documents signed they can get a medical marijuana card. There is a distinct difference between recreational marijuana and medical marijuana, for one recreational still has all of the THC and no components are taken out of it. THC is the substance that gives a person a “high.”

According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, “CBD is a cannabinoid that does not affect the mind or behavior. It may be useful in reducing pain and inflammation, controlling epileptic seizures, and possibly even treating mental illness and addictions.” When an eligible patient begins this treatment, they wouldn't be getting the “high” like recreational users. Instead they'd be receiving the amount needed to help them. Most people smoke the plant, however, the person would receive it in different forms.

So far, marijuana has been proven to help with a variety of conditions. “For instance, euphoria may be a desirable effect for patients undergoing palliative care or for those who suffer from chronic pain some types of cannabis simply won’t get you high, no matter how much of it you ingest.” (Leaf Science) It has been proven to help reduce the amount of pain a person is in when taken. Any person could decide to apply for cannabis but only few would be allowed to have it. Once a person gets approved and has the drug, they will consistently be checked on by doctors in order to make sure that they aren’t abusing it.

The legalization of medical cannabis is slowly spreading which is a positive thing. It has many benefits specifically helping people with medical problems. If people could be given a better and even healthier alternative treatment, why not give provide it? It's safer than other things such as chemotherapy. Medical marijuana is a substance that could dramatically help everyone and needs to be legalized.

Sincerely,

Sarahi