Researcher Returns With Introduction to Medical Cannabis

Medical cannabis researcher and author, Michael Backes returns to Maui for another Lunch & Learn presentation from 1-3 pm, Saturday Feb. 16, at the Leis Family Class Act Restaurant

How and why medical cannabis helps to manage medical conditions will be explained by researcher and author, Michael Backes.

Backes returns to Maui for his first Lunch and Learn presentation of 2019 from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday Feb. 16, at the Leis Family Class Act Restaurant, on the second floor of the Paʻina Building at the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College campus in Kahului.

The presentation entitled, “Introduction to Medical Cannabis,” is designed for those who may be considering medical cannabis for themselves or a loved one. Backes will explain how and why cannabis works to manage a range of symptoms and conditions, different methods of administration, and the differences and similarities between THC, CBD and other therapeutic plant compounds. He will also explain the conditions that qualify patients to use cannabis legally in the Hawaiʻi.

A $20 registration fee includes a hot buffet lunch and class materials. Registration is available online.

“As we enter 2019, Hawaiʻi has nearly 24,000 registered patients who are finding relief by using cannabis,” said Mr. Backes. “What’s especially exciting is the number of patients who have successfully weaned themselves off of opioids by turning to cannabis to help manage their chronic pain. And while CBD has recently gained public attention, there is great deal of misinformation about its legal status and health benefits. And research published this month indicates that much of our understanding about CBD could be changing dramatically.”

Michael Backes is the author of Cannabis Pharmacy: The Practical Guide to Medical Marijuana, an inside look at the most effective varieties of cannabis for specific conditions. Backes also founded Cornerstone Research Collective, the nation’s first evidence-based medical cannabis dispensary. He currently serves as Curriculum and Training advisor for Maui Grown Therapies in Kahului, and is a member of their Science and Medical Advisory Board.