A new study published Tuesday suggests the benefits of medical marijuana for some illnesses is unproven.
The study found marijuana was most helpful for patients with chronic pain and muscle stiffness from multiple sclerosis, but not as helpful for other conditions like anxiety, sleep disorders and Tourette's Syndrome.
Dale Sky Jones, who teaches classes on all aspects of medical marijuana at Oaksterdam University in Oakland, disputes the report's claims.
"Whether it's the medical benefit we expected or less than we expected based on their results, it's talking about a medical benefit," Jones said.
Family practitioner Frank Lucido agrees with Jones and said while the study reports average patients did not benefit, it does not mean no one will benefit.
But others said the study is debunking long-held beliefs in the medical marijuana industry.
"The more fantastic claims that marijuana is going to cure diabetes, and epilepsy, and cancer, and PTSD have no basis in science," Dr. Keith Humphreys said.
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Humphreys adds both sides will try and swing the study their way, but more research needs to be done.
"It's got some modest benefits in a couple conditions and that's all we know," Humphreys said.
