Cannabis was originally classified as a narcotic. However, after the Royal Gazette published the Ministry of Public Health’s announcement to exempt cannabis and hemp from being classified as Category 5 narcotics, the use of cannabis for medical purposes became legal.
It is also now possible to grow cannabis at home and for commercial purposes by registering with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Cannabis has since become a very popular and trending topic, whether for use in health products such as food, cosmetics, herbal remedies, and also cannabis oil.
Table of Contents
What is cannabis? Its origin and historical use
Cannabis is a type of herbaceous plant that contains cannabinoids as the main component. The key substances are Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD). In addition, there are many other important compounds such as flavonoids, terpenes, etc. It has various properties such as increasing appetite, reducing anxiety, relieving pain, and relaxing muscles. However, at the same time, it also acts on the nervous system, which can cause abnormal emotions, psychiatric symptoms, or affect cognition as well.
As for the origin of cannabis, it is believed that it may have originated in Central Asia or western China. Cannabis is a plant that has been harvested for various purposes, whether for medical use such as pain relief, for religious or spiritual rituals and beliefs, or for using parts of the stem or fibers in the production of clothing and rope, etc.
What are the different types of cannabis, and how does each one affect the body?
Today, cannabis comes in many different strains, each with its own unique effects on the body and mind. The most commonly available strains include:
- Cannabis Sativa
This strain stimulates the brain, promoting energy, alertness, and a sense of well-being. It may also help reduce anxiety. - Cannabis Indica
Known for its high CBD content, Indica tends to induce drowsiness and relaxation. It also enhances appetite and is often used to promote rest. - Cannabis Hybrid
A cross between Sativa and Indica strains. The effects vary depending on the ratio of each type in the hybrid — it can be energizing, relaxing, or a balance of both. - Thai Stick (also known as “Squirrel Tail” strain)
A popular Thai native strain, believed to be a natural hybrid of Sativa and Indica. Thai Stick is known for its high THC levels. Its effects include mild euphoria, appetite stimulation, and stress relief.
What is cannabis oil?
Cannabis oil is an extract from the cannabis plant, extracted from cannabis flowers through CO₂ extraction or ethanol extraction processes. There are several types, such as CBD oil, which is extracted from hemp, contains high CBD, is commonly used in medicine, and does not have psychoactive effects; and THC oil, which contains high THC, has psychoactive effects, and is classified as a Category 1 narcotic.
Cannabis oil has various properties, including helping to relieve pain, reduce acne, and reduce stress. However, in Thailand, cannabis oil is permitted for medical use only. It can be used as an ingredient in medicine, food, cosmetics, or herbal products, but must go through a process to dilute the THC content to only 0.2%. In addition, the use of cannabis oil should be under the supervision of a doctor.
How to use cannabis oil? Safe usage methods
In addition to the interesting properties of cannabis oil, there are also various ways to use it, which can be adjusted based on the patient’s condition or the physical state of the person using it, under close medical supervision. For example:
- Cannabis oil for sublingual use: This involves placing cannabis oil drops under the tongue. The substance is absorbed into the bloodstream quickly.
- Cannabis oil for massage use: This has properties that help relieve aches and pains, and reduce chronic muscle pain. The oil is applied and massaged on the painful areas such as the legs, arms, or back.
- Cannabis oil for topical application: This has benefits in treating skin conditions, helping reduce skin inflammation, and can also help reduce acne. The cannabis extract helps fight skin infections caused by dirt, whether from bacteria or fungi.
The health benefits of cannabis oil
As mentioned above, cannabis oil has interesting properties and is used in medicine. In terms of its health benefits, cannabis oil can:
- Help relieve pain: Cannabis extracts contain compounds that have pain-relieving properties for both muscles and the nervous system, making cannabis oil beneficial in alleviating bodily pain.
- Help relieve symptoms of certain diseases: Such as epilepsy, muscle spasms in multiple sclerosis patients, nausea and vomiting, increasing appetite, and reducing side effects from chemotherapy, etc.
- Help reduce anxiety, especially in people with depression. The cannabinoids in cannabis can help stabilize mood, promote relaxation, and improve sleep. However, all usage must be under close supervision and judgment of a medical professional.
Side effects of use
As for the side effects or dangers of using cannabis oil, if we use it in an amount that is appropriate for treatment and under close medical supervision, cannabis oil will provide benefits and be very safe.
However, cannabis oil can also cause harm or side effects if used in an amount that exceeds what is appropriate. It may cause diarrhea, fatigue, dizziness, drowsiness, weight changes, abnormal breathing, anxiety, etc.
In addition, there is information from the Ministry of Public Health stating that the use of cannabis or extracts containing high levels of THC continuously over a long period of time may lead to drug tolerance, requiring an increased dosage, or may cause the user to become addicted.
Legal use of cannabis oil
Thailand has decriminalized cannabis for use in medicine and research. It is now allowed to grow cannabis at home or for commercial purposes by registering through the “Plook Ganja” application of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
As for the legal use of cannabis oil in Thailand, it can be summarized briefly as follows:
- The amount of CBD and THC in cannabis oil that is considered appropriate or not controlled must not exceed 0.2%.
- The use of cannabis oil must be under the supervision of a doctor.
- The sale and purchase of cannabis oil must be done through authorized sources.
- It is prohibited to sell or advertise cannabis oil without a license.
- Carrying cannabis oil out of the country is strictly prohibited.
Conclusion:
The use of cannabis oil, if used in the proper amount and for the correct purpose, can be highly beneficial — especially for those seeking medical treatment.
For those who are interested, you are welcome to visit LINNA CLINIC. We have an experienced team of doctors who are ready to provide health consultations, along with Thai traditional medicine doctors and alternative medicine specialists who can recommend cannabis oil suitable for each patient.
Those interested can contact us via LINE: @linnaclinic or WhatsApp: +66 919799554.
