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What shocked Gedde the most was her discovery that this natural remedy helped so many patients. She knew that patients who continue on painkillers too long suffer increasing risk of complications. But, according to Dr. Gedde, patients can stay on marijuana for months or years without adverse effects.

Why is this the case? In 1992 the Journal of Science reported that in all tissues of the body there are receptors to marijuana. This means that, unlike prescription drugs, our bodies are prepared to make good use of this ancient plant.

There are two kinds of marijuana. The THC type creates a “high”. The other, CBD, is associated with pain control. Gedde, and other experts, refer to the “sweet spot” when discussing the effects of marijuana. Namely, that in some cases, a combination of the two provides the best relief of pain.

So it becomes a matter of finding the right dose and combination of strains of marijuana that are most effective for the individual. In other words, the shoe does not fit all feet. Or, as it’s been aptly said, “different strokes for different folks.”

My research shows that the medical use of marijuana has been underestimated, underused and grossly misunderstood by the majority of North Americans, including doctors who remain resistant to natural remedies. And one has to ask why it has been so vilified.

Some reports say that smoking pot was looked on as an act of disobedience during the Vietnam War. That it was heavily targeted by the U.S. government to get rid of hippies who were looking for a “high.” Some even suggest that it provided a reason to put questionable elements of society in jail.