ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE?

MARIJUANA CAN TREAT MANY DISEASES

I read with interest the report on the use of caffeine and alcohol to aid
stroke victims ("Coffee with mixed drink might ease strokes' effects,
prevent brain damage," The Gazette, April 13).

In man's search for methods to prevent and treat strokes, it is informative
to understand how our bodies attempt to respond to this condition endocannabinoids (internally produced marijuana-like compounds).
Endocannabinoids reduce swelling and inflammation while at the same time
protecting nerve cells from dying. Marijuana and related compounds even
produce dramatic protection against nerve gas exposure.

The citizens of Colorado have recognized the value that medical marijuana
can have in preventing and treating numerous disease states.

Dr. Robert J. Melamede

Chairman, Biology Department University of Colorado Colorado Springs