Medical Marijuana

http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/component/flexicontent/item/45880-finally-medical-marijuana-is-on-its-way-to-new-jersey?Itemid=248
Ok, so I don't get this part of the article:
He wasn't permitted? He's on the stand? But can't give honest testimony? WTF?
Further, this is a simple dried herb. Any sick person can grow it, but if they do, it is illegal. But if a corporation crushes it up and puts it in a pill, they can sell it to hospitals and pharmacies for big bucks.
Why does this make sense to anyone?
Ok, so I don't get this part of the article:
Back in March, John Ray Wilson was sentenced to five-years in prison for growing pot in the backyard of his Somerset home. At his trial, he wasn't permitted to tell the jury he grew the pot to relieve the symptoms that came from having multiple sclerosis, even though New Jersey approved the legalization of medical marijuana in January of 2010.
He wasn't permitted? He's on the stand? But can't give honest testimony? WTF?
Further, this is a simple dried herb. Any sick person can grow it, but if they do, it is illegal. But if a corporation crushes it up and puts it in a pill, they can sell it to hospitals and pharmacies for big bucks.
Why does this make sense to anyone?