The use of medical marijuana has been a hot topic for years, with many people debating its safety, efficacy, and legality. However, the history of medical marijuana dates back to ancient times, when it was widely used for various medical conditions.
From ancient China to modern-day New York, the use of medical marijuana has evolved over the centuries.
In this article, we will explore the history of medical marijuana, from ancient times to today. We will examine how cannabis was used in ancient cultures for medicinal purposes and how it was introduced to Western medicine in the 19th century.
We will also look at the criminalization of cannabis in the United States in the 20th century and the renewed interest in medical marijuana in recent years.
We will also discuss the process of applying for a medical marijuana card in New York and how it can help patients access medical marijuana for their medical conditions.
By understanding the history of medical marijuana, we can appreciate its long-standing place in medicine and its potential for treating various ailments.
Ancient Times
The use of cannabis as a medicinal plant dates back to ancient times. The first recorded use of cannabis as medicine was in China around 2737 BC by Emperor Shen Neng. He used cannabis tea to treat various ailments, including malaria, gout, and rheumatism.
Cannabis was also used in India for medicinal purposes, dating back to around 2000 BC. The plant was considered sacred and was used in religious ceremonies. The ancient Hindu text, Atharvaveda, describes cannabis as a source of happiness, joy, and freedom from anxiety.
In ancient Egypt, cannabis was used as a treatment for glaucoma and inflammation. The Ebers Papyrus, an ancient Egyptian medical text, mentions cannabis as a treatment for various ailments.
In ancient Greece, cannabis was used as a pain reliever and was also used to treat inflammation. The Greek physician Galen recommended cannabis for earaches and headaches.
Middle Ages
During the Middle Ages, cannabis was used in Europe for medicinal purposes. Cannabis was widely used as a pain reliever, and it was also used to treat other medical conditions, such as nausea and vomiting.
In the Islamic world, cannabis was used to treat various medical conditions, including epilepsy and migraines. The Persian physician Avicenna recommended cannabis for the treatment of headaches, earaches, and diarrhea.
In medieval Europe, cannabis was used as a treatment for various ailments, including toothaches, menstrual cramps, and arthritis. The French physician Jacques-Joseph Moreau conducted experiments on animals and found that cannabis had a relaxing effect on muscles and reduced pain.
Modern Times
In the early 20th century, cannabis was widely used in the United States for medicinal purposes. It was available over the counter and was used to treat a wide range of medical conditions, such as migraines, menstrual cramps, and asthma.
However, in the 1930s, cannabis was criminalized in the United States due to political and economic reasons. The Marijuana Tax Act of 1937 made cannabis illegal, and it was classified as a Schedule I drug in 1970.
The criminalization of cannabis made it difficult for researchers to study its medical properties. However, in the 1990s, there was a renewed interest in medical marijuana. California became the first state to legalize medical marijuana in 1996, followed by other states.
Today, medical marijuana is legal in 36 states, including New York. Medical marijuana is used to treat a wide range of medical conditions, such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and epilepsy.
Medical Marijuana Card in New York
If you are a resident of New York and have a qualifying medical condition, you can apply for a medical marijuana card. To apply, you need to have a consultation with a registered physician who will determine if you qualify for medical marijuana.
Once you have been approved, you can register with the New York State Department of Health to receive your medical marijuana card. The card will allow you to purchase medical marijuana from a licensed dispensary in New York.
It’s important to note that medical marijuana is not covered by insurance, and you will need to pay out of pocket for your medication. However, the cost of medical marijuana is often lower than the cost of prescription medications.
Applying for a medical marijuana card in New York is a straightforward process, and it’s a great way to access medical marijuana for your medical condition.
Conclusion
The history of medical marijuana is a long and fascinating one that dates back to ancient times. Throughout the centuries, people have used cannabis to treat a wide range of medical conditions, from pain relief to anxiety and depression. Despite its long-standing place in medicine, cannabis has also faced periods of criminalization and political controversy.
Today, medical marijuana is legal in many states, including New York. It is used to treat various medical conditions, and patients can apply for a medical marijuana card to access it legally. The process of applying for a medical marijuana card is straightforward, and it can help patients with qualifying conditions access the medication they need.
By exploring the history of medical marijuana, we can gain a better understanding of its potential benefits and its complicated past. As research continues and laws change, it is likely that medical marijuana will become an increasingly important part of modern medicine.
