The prescription of Medicinal Cannabis by doctors in the form of CBD (Cannabidiol) and THC is legal in New Zealand under strict control. CBD is one of more than 100 natural cannabinoids derived from the cannabis plant. CBD binds to the body’s CB1 receptors in the brain and nervous system and CB2 receptors in the immune system, regulating inflammation. CBD can have great therapeutic effects as described below without any psychoactive effect. i.e no feeling of being high or stoned. Unlike THC found in recreational marijuana. CBD is non addictive, very free of side effects with medication and very safe. Death from cannabis in general is so rare as to figure in no government statistics worldwide. Dr Batt is one of few NZ doctors trained in Medicinal Cannabis prescribing.
MAIN USES FOR CBD: PAIN - arthritis including Rheumatoid, neuropathic and cancer pain. NAUSEA - cancer, chemo therapy ANXIETY, DEPRESSION, PTSD, INSOMNIA NEUROPROTECTION - Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis SPASM/DYSKINESIA EPILEPSY
THC: Small doses of THC can enhance the effectiveness of CBD in the treatment of insomnia and pain management.
In 2017, a World Health Organisation report stated, “There is preliminary evidence that CBD may be a useful treatment for a number of medical conditions,” among them Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, MS, pain, anxiety, depression, cancer and diabetic complications. As a known antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic agent, there is also anecdotal evidence that it improves the symptoms of insomnia, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), skin complaints, arthritis and migraines.