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