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About the Episode

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of cannabis extracts and cannabinoids, and not finding the right solution for your health concerns, then you are not alone! With so many different options and delivery methods, it’s easy to feel lost in the sea of information. From tinctures to edibles, and the debate between THC and CBD, finding the right balance can be a daunting task. It’s time to cut through the confusion and get the clarity you need to make informed decisions about your health and well-being.

In this episode, Dr. Misha Kogan unravels the complexities of medical marijuana and the potential benefits of cannabinoids. Dr. Kogan, medical director of the George Washington University Center for Integrative Medicine, brings a wealth of expertise and insights into the intricate nature of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, shedding light on their roles in the effects of medical marijuana.

Listen now to start using the right cannabis and cannabinoids to help you feel better today!

What We Discuss

Dr. Kogan emphasizes the importance of understanding the endocannabinoid system, a vital regulator of various physiological processes, and discusses the decline in natural cannabinoid production with age, which can impact overall health. Dr. Kogan also touches on personalized treatment approaches, the significance of finding the right balance in cannabinoid therapy, and the potential risks associated with unregulated products

Understanding Cannabinoid Therapy

Dr. Mikhail Kogan emphasizes using a “start low, go slow” approach. He highlights the importance of starting patients on a low dose of cannabinoids and gradually increasing it to find the optimal therapeutic window. This method helps avoid adverse effects that can occur with higher doses, such as hyperemesis syndrome. Using this method, cannabinoids have the potential to treat various conditions, including chronic pain and nausea, by focusing on the precise delivery method and dosage to maximize benefits while minimizing risks.

Cannabis Consumption: Methods and Risks

Contrary to common belief, smoking cannabis does not increase lung cancer risk but can cause bronchitis and chronic cough. He contrasts this with the dangers of vaping, particularly with cartridges that may contain harmful chemicals. He also touches on the issue of EVALI, a severe lung condition linked to contaminated vape cartridges, and highlights the importance of choosing safe, high-quality products. Dr. Kogan advises starting with sublingual oils due to their precise dosing and faster effects, especially for conditions like insomnia where rapid relief is crucial.

Navigating the Complexity of Cannabinoid Medicine

Cannabinoid medicine’s complexity is evident as Dr. Kogan discusses the challenges of prescribing the right product for specific conditions like anxiety, pain, and cancer. With over 20,000 cannabis variants and numerous formulations available, finding the right match can be daunting. That is why he stresses the need for professional guidance and highlights the variability in product effectiveness due to differences in cannabinoid ratios and terpene profiles. He also addresses the lack of standardization in the industry, which can lead to inconsistencies in treatment outcomes. For patients and practitioners, understanding these nuances is essential for effectively utilizing cannabis in medical therapy.

Guest Bio

Mikhail Kogan, M.D., is the medical director of the George Washington University Center for
Integrative Medicine and associate professor of medicine at the George Washington University School of Medicine. Dr. Kogan has recommended medical marijuana to thousands of patients and is a frequent lecturer on medical cannabis to professional audiences across the nation.

Links

facebook.com/mishakoganmd/
twitter.com/koganmd?lang=en
wordpress.org/
drmishakogan.com/
Medical Marijuana Book

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