Not long ago marijuana was classified exclusively a big, bad, gateway drug.  Those possessing or, heaven forbid, consuming it in any way were nothing but scoundrel criminals. Benefits of its use were unheard of in the mainstream.   Marijuana for medicinal purposes? Yeah right. Marijuana to improve or even save lives? No freakin’ way.

Medical Marijuana Revolution

Dr. Sanjay Gupta’s “Weed 3,” released earlier this year, has helped to rally support for a greater understanding of marijuana’s benefits.  “Weed 3” is as great as earlier installments in highlighting the benefits of marijuana consumption.

After reviewing what he has called an “unimpressive” collection of research on medical marijuana in the U.S., Gupta travelled the world researching and interviewing growers, medical marijuana patients and pro-legalization advocates. For those who may not know, Gupta was featured in TIME Magazine in 2009 for his article “Why I would Vote No on Pot.” Here Gupta explains, noting:

“I mistakenly believed the Drug Enforcement Agency listed marijuana as a schedule 1 substance because of sound scientific proof. Surely, they must have quality reasoning as to why marijuana is in the category of the most dangerous drugs that have ‘no accepted medicinal use and a high potential for abuse.’”

Gupta has since apologized for looking down on pot and, armed with evidence of the unwavering benefits of medicinal use, unapologetically been calling for a “revolution” to legalize marijuana.  This revolution ought to incorporate the medicinal benefits of pot into the our healthcare system. Nationally. Immediately.  Yes, pronto.

Check out Dr. Sanjay Gupta: It’s time for a medical marijuana revolution and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts with us.