Does Eating Raw Cannabis Offer Any Health Benefits in Ohio?
Does Eating Raw Cannabis Offer Any Health Benefits?
Many are curious about whether eating a raw marijuana bud will get them high. The short answer to that question is – it won’t! We’ll look at the reasons why living marijuana plants do not produce psychoactive effects and the necessary processes that make it possible.
If you’re wondering if medical marijuana (MMJ) is right for you, schedule an exam with one of our Ohio Medical Marijuana Doctors. Completing our eligibility survey takes only 5 minutes. Find out if you pre-qualify for a recommendation!
Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid (THCA)
Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid (THCA), other than being difficult to pronounce, is the lesser known component of marijuana that converts to THC. Vaping, smoking, and cooking marijuana are the final part of that process, but specifically, THCA is the non-psychoactive compound that once harvested and stored, converts slowly within the marijuana plant. This is why growers take often take time to curate their plants before selling them to dispensaries. Known as decarboxylation, the process of converting THCA into THC is essential to the experience most seek when consuming marijuana [1].
Raw Marijuana and Absorption
Raw marijuana is processed much differently by the body. It enters the stomach and passes through the digestive system, such that, only trace amounts of THC are absorbed. Smoking, vaping, or cooking marijuana activates the THC, allowing it to enter the bloodstream. Those who have concerns about whether marijuana can damage the lungs should opt for consuming edibles or drinks that have been properly infused with cannabis. Usually, edibles are processed by heating cannabis in butter, alcohol, or oil. Edibles do not contain raw cannabis or flowers [1].
Health Benefits of Raw Cannabis
Though people do not consume raw cannabis will hopes of getting high, it does have many health benefits enjoyed by people all over the world. A relatively new form of consumption, eating raw cannabis may have healing powers. First, it is similar to leafy, green vegetables like kale, so the marijuana plant is full of fiber – great for digestion! In addition, marijuana contains essential vitamins and nutrients [2]:
- Iron – the most prevalent nutritional deficiency, iron aids the transport of oxygen through the body [3].
- Folate/Folic Acid – Important for metabolism and cell growth and an important supplement for pregnant women [4].
- Calcium – The most plentiful nutrient in the body, calcium builds strong bones, regulates muscle contraction (including the heartbeat), aids blood coagulation, and promotes healthy communication between the brain and body [5].
- Vitamin C – Boosts the immune system.
- Vitamin K – Aids blood clotting and calcium absorption.
Many know the compounds that contribute to the flavor and aroma of cannabis are known as terpenes, but few know they are more prevalent in the raw form of cannabis. Terpenes bring about relaxation and stress relief, key aspects to a good night’s sleep. “So if you are after a peaceful and sound night’s sleep but don’t fancy the risks of getting high before bedtime, eating raw marijuana could be the very thing you need (it works wonders in helping you fall asleep naturally, and more importantly, to stay asleep through the all-important REM cycles” [2].
Anthocyanin
One of the most interesting benefits to consuming raw cannabis comes from the lesser-known nutritional element “anthocyanin.” It is responsible for the purple, red, and blue hues recognized in most superfoods like eggplant and cabbage. Some strains even reflect a purplish hue because anthocyanin is very abundant in raw cannabis. A powerful promoter of overall health, anthocyanin promotes a healthy heart, immune system, and even improved vision [2].
Is Medical Marijuana Right for Me?
Whether medical marijuana will help your condition depends on many factors best evaluated by a medical doctor. If you feel you may benefit from medical marijuana, the first step is to take our eligibility survey. In just 5 minutes, you could pre-qualify for a Ohio medical marijuana recommendation. An Ohio Medical Marijuana Doctor can then determine if you qualify during an in-person exam. For more information, visit https://docmj.com/ohio/.
- https://www.civilized.life/articles/can-you-eat-raw-cannabis-to-get-high/
- https://www.marijuanabreak.com/eat-raw-marijuana
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/features/iron-supplements#1
- https://www.webmd.com/diet/supplement-guide-folic-acid#1
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/248958.php#why-do-we-need-calcium?