Pubdate: Thu, 25 Jul 2002
Source: Los Angeles Times (CA)
Webpage: 
www.latimes.com/news/printedition/opinion/la-le-nakagawa25.2jul25.story
Copyright: 2002 Los Angeles Times
Contact:  http://www.latimes.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/248
Author: Mitch Earleywine

A HEALTHY DOSE OF MEDICAL MARIJUANA

Thanks for "Court Accepts Medical Pot Use" (July 19), your article on the 
California Supreme Court's decision to help protect users of medical 
marijuana from prosecution. Few of us may realize that marijuana has been 
illegal for only about 60 years; its medical use goes back to 2737 BC.

The court's decision could have a dramatic impact. Thousands here in 
California could turn to medical marijuana for relief from illnesses. Other 
states could develop comparable policies, thanks to California's lead. 
Researchers might become more willing to confirm that the drug reduces 
pain, headache, muscle tremors and nausea while improving appetite. Braver 
souls might investigate the drug's potential to treat arthritis, seizures, 
insomnia and anxiety.

In an age of rising costs for health care, this decision could help support 
inexpensive treatment for many ailments. We could all save vast sums in the 
long run.

Mitch Earleywine

Los Angeles
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