Let’s legalise medical marijuana

Before anyone asks, “What are you smoking, mzee?” let me first do the sober thing, which is to remind you that weed is illegal in Uganda. It is also illegal in many countries around the world.
So, before our government buys into the science that weed is also medicine, don’t be silly to use it, for you will get yourself arrested and jailed.

I am a strong believer in science, though. And when I come across the science that is good for our general health, much as it could be chastised, it is better to share and may be, our scientists can advise powers that be, like they did to our president ahead of the passing of the anti-gay. Hope they get it right, this time round.
So don’t be bewildered when I say, weed could be good for your health.
Many ask; Isn’t there medicine that can put cancer out of action?

Research on the subject say, the answer might be in that prohibited weed.
You have grown up hearing that people who abuse (use) weed are the wasted lot in your hood. That is unfortunate to see young lives wasted due to drug abuse of any kind. That should be controlled.
However, some doctors know what many fear to admit; administering marijuana on cancer or epileptic patients, among other illnesses, has been bearing good results.
There are several reports that weed has been used in the treatment of cancer successfully.
It not only eases the pain the patients go through, but also, stop growth of cancerous cells.
The American Association for Cancer Research has found that marijuana slows down tumour growth in the lungs, breasts, and brain considerably.
The same applies to muscle relaxing in the treatment for seizures.

Other sickness said to be treated effectively with weed include migraines, glaucoma, premenstrual syndrome and Alzheimer. Dr Tod H Mikuriya’s list is even longer; you can google it.
I am not saying pick a leaf a smoke it today? Not yet. However, our scientists should have an informed stand and advise policy makers accordingly.
I don’t smoke weed. But, I would if it would treat me. Medicine is medicine – one only needs to follow the doctor’s instructions.

CNN’s Dr Gupta Sanjay, a senior medical reporter for the TV network has extensively researched, interviewed experts, and reported on medical weed usage. His conclusion baffled me when I first read them, but the more I read and watched his reports, the more I am converted.
Gupta wrote on March 6, 2014, “I have been reminded that a true and productive scientific journey involves a willingness to let go of established notions and get at the truth, even if it is uncomfortable and even it means having to say “sorry.”

He said, what I now believe, “This scientific journey is about a growing number of patients who want the cannabis plant as a genuine medicine, not to get high.” I agree no less.
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