Here's Everything You Need To Know About Cannabis Oil And Its Medical Uses

It's time for some weed studies. Today's lesson in marijuana 101 zooms in on the sticky, THC-based substance called cannabis oil. Scientifically, cannabis oil is a thick, sticky substance made up of cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, extracted from cannabis plants.

But, what exactly are its uses and how does it affect the way we view marijuana?

Well, let's start with the basics.

What exactly is cannabis oil?

Cannabis oil is obtained by separating the resins from cannabis flowers using a variety of solvent extraction methods, the most common being butane.

Often referred to as shatter, wax, hash oil and dabs, cannabis oil is the most potent and concentrated form of marijuana, and for that, it's the most popular.

Although they all share the same ingredient, these nicknames help differentiate the consistency and texture obtained from various processes. An example of this is shatter and wax.

Shatter is known for its flawless amber-glass transparency, while wax takes a softer, opaque form. Both may derive from cannabis oil, but unlike shatter, wax is developed from agitation, or constantly disrupting molecules that will eventually form a solid, non-transparent oil.

Due to the oil's strong super powers (not literally) and popularity, it is highly recommended to be cautious of where you obtain cannabis oil extract.

While your neighborhood drug dealer may be more convenient, it may not be the best decision. Depending on the producer, cannabis oil can have other contaminants with little to none THC or CBD involved.

It's better to make your own oil or have someone trustworthy make your oil.

What is cannabis oil used for?

Now, I bet you're wondering about the benefits of cannabis oil. Besides experiencing a mind-blowing high, cannabis oil is often linked to improving many medical conditions.

Some of these conditions include cancer, diabetes, gout, fibromyalgia, epilepsy, Crohn's disease, glaucoma, arthritis, migraines, anorexia, Doose syndrome, multiple sclerosis, adrenal disease, psoriasis and even alcohol abuse.

That's not all. Cannabis oil also possesses antioxidant properties, which is useful in treating and preventing age-related inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, HIV dementia and neurological damages caused by trauma or strokes.

Cannabis oil can also be used in many ways.

It can be orally ingested, vaporized into the lungs, used as a suppository and even mixed with creams for beauty treatments.

Several states are now considering, or have passed, bills to allow legalization of medical marijuana oil for patients who suffer from incurable and chronic conditions.

Fifteen states currently allow the use of medical marijuana oil.

This post was originally written by Rebecca Hourselt for Stoned Girls.