The Benefits of Medicinal Cannabis: A Natural Alternative
For many in New Zealand, traditional treatments and medications haven’t brought the relief they need. Medicinal cannabis is a natural alternative for managing a wide range of conditions including anxiety, depression, chronic pain, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, insomnia, migraines and more. It can offer a gentler approach for those seeking holistic support for their mental and physical wellbeing.
Struggling with anxiety? Medicinal cannabis, especially strains high in CBD, may help ease symptoms such as a racing heart, restlessness and heightened stress. Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive, providing calming effects without the ‘high’. Studies show that CBD can help regulate the brain’s response to stress, making it a potentially powerful tool for anxiety relief and emotional balance.
Sleepless nights impacting your daily life? Insomnia is another condition where medicinal cannabis has shown promise. A recent New Zealand study revealed that 97% of participants using cannabis therapeutically reported significant improvements in their sleep. High-CBD strains may help regulate sleep patterns, enabling better rest and improved mental clarity. For those dealing with anxiety-related sleep disturbances, medicinal cannabis offers a promising alternative to traditional sleep aids.
Living with chronic pain? Chronic pain can take a toll on both body and mind and, for some, medicinal cannabis offers relief without the side effects of opioid medications. CBD, in particular, has been studied for its pain-relieving properties, helping people manage conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia and migraines. Research, including a systematic review on CBD for chronic pain, suggests that CBD may help alleviate discomfort and enhance sleep, offering a safer alternative for pain management.
With an increasing body of research, medicinal cannabis provides a hopeful path for many.
Meet the Green Doctors: Transforming Lives Through Medicinal Cannabis Care
Since 2019, Green Doctors has been at the forefront of New Zealand’s medicinal cannabis field, proudly providing accessible telehealth consultations with experienced doctors. Founded by the late Dr Mark Hotu and co-founder Natalie Lowe, Green Doctors has earned its place as a trusted source for Kiwis seeking natural, cannabis-based relief for a wide range of health challenges. From their origins in a physical clinic on Jervois Road to their bright and modern Eden Terrace location, Green Doctors has grown to serve patients from every corner of New Zealand.
The journey hasn’t been without challenges. Following Dr Hotu's untimely passing in early 2023, Natalie Lowe stepped up to carry forward their shared vision. “Mark played a pivotal role in establishing Green Doctors’ reputation as a compassionate, knowledgeable clinic dedicated to patient care. His vision still guides us and we are more committed than ever to improving the lives of our patients,” says Natalie. “We believe that everyone deserves access to safe, affordable and effective treatments that enhance their quality of life.”
Looking to the future, Natalie is enthusiastic about the clinic’s continued growth. “Our aim is to keep learning and expanding to meet our patients’ needs. As awareness around medicinal cannabis continues to grow, so too does the demand. We’re excited to be part of this positive change and hope to reach even more people who can benefit from our services.”
A Promising Future for Medicinal Cannabis in New Zealand
Medicinal cannabis research has progressed significantly in recent years, with studies demonstrating how cannabinoids, the active compounds in cannabis, interact with the body's endocannabinoid system to address a range of conditions. This understanding has underpinned the legalisation of medicinal cannabis in New Zealand and across the globe, as more people recognise the therapeutic benefits cannabis can offer.
In 2023 alone, around 40,000 New Zealanders accessed medicinal cannabis for conditions like insomnia, arthritis, chronic pain, menopause, epilepsy, ADHD and as a support for cancer treatment. New Zealand’s cannabis market is now one of the fastest-growing in the region, with an estimated market value expected to exceed NZ$80 million by year’s end and annual growth projections at 14.58% (source: Statista). Green Doctors is committed to being part of this growing movement, helping more Kiwis discover how medicinal cannabis can be an effective complement to traditional therapies.
As a part of their mission to expand access, Green Doctors is soon adding new product options to their portfolio, providing more tailored choices for patients and enhancing the clinic’s range of therapeutic offerings.
Take Advantage of Green Doctors’ Affordable Consultation Offer The rising costs of food and living have been challenging for many this year, and Green Doctors is stepping up to help. To make consultations even more accessible, Green Doctors is now offering a discounted rate of just $35 for consultations until the end of February 2025 – the lowest cost for medicinal cannabis consults in New Zealand!
Natalie shares, “We’re always looking for ways to make medicinal cannabis more accessible. We understand that managing health issues can be stressful, especially during tough economic times. This special offer reflects our commitment to helping more people access affordable, quality care.”
Your Path to a Better Life Starts Here
If you’re dealing with chronic pain, sleepless nights, anxious feelings or a range of other health conditions, Green Doctors could offer the support you need. To learn more about medicinal cannabis and how it could improve your quality of life, reach out to the Green Doctors today. Their experienced doctors are ready to discuss whether medicinal cannabis is a suitable option, guide you through your choices and provide a personalised approach to your health and wellness journey.
Unit 2 - 1/65 Upper Queen Street, Eden Terrace, T: 09 360 0654, admin@thegreendoctors.co.nz www.greendoctors.co.nz