PDF by Erik Bowen, Doctor of Pharmacy, and Illume Cannabis Wellness Founder

Click the image below to view a PDF presentation excerpted from a presentation by Dr. Bowen

Dr. Erik Bowen is a former pain management patient. He knows that Cannabis is a very misunderstood plant, partly because of the stigma/politics surrounding its use. THC is but ONE component of the plant, but is the one most focused on because it can get you “high”. There are many other cannabinoids, including CBD, CBG, and CBN. There are also acidic cannabinoids such as THCA, CBDA, CBGA. Like different medications, each of these possess properties which MAY help to manage a variety of symptoms or conditions. The compounds in Cannabis which cause the smell (called terpenes), MAY also have therapeutic properties as well.  

It is also possible to take advantage of some of the properties of THC and minimize its side effects when taken along with the right dose of CBD. Additionally, by working with someone familiar with how to dose THC, you can get in what we call the “Sweet Spot”. That is defined as the dosage which causes the best relief of symptoms, while avoiding or minimizing undesired effects. This can be a challenge as every person's dosing is individual to them.  

While there are general principles to start with, everybody is a little different. Working with someone who understands how the body changes as we age is important. Someone who understands diseases, the medications used to treat them, and has a knowledge of known interactions with cannabis-based products could be a valuable addition in the use of Cannabis as a medicine.

Dr. Erik is not anti-Pharma, but he is pro-Cannabis. As a pharmacist, he wants to be able to look objectively at the whole “tool box” of wellness options and help patients find their best path forward to improve health and quality of life for THEM, specifically. 

About Dr. Erik Bowen:

Dr. Erik Bowen knows that not everyone's wellness journey includes the responsible use of Cannabis. At Illume, the goal is to help you improve your quality of life, period — whether Cannabis is a component of that or not. With that in mind, Illume CannaRX offers knowledgeable pharmacy consulting and services for people who want to rethink their traditional medicine regimen, as it is now— whether that be the use of a multitude of medications, potentially inappropriate medications, underuse, or duplication.

Effective Cannabis Newsletter is a platform to educate on the vital role of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) in one's health. The information is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in or available through this newsletter is for general information purposes only. It is not medical advice; it is health awareness.