Although the use of cannabis has often been denoted with controversy, recent scientific discoveries highlight its notable health benefits. Medical marijuana is now gaining popularity as a complementary medicine to help with a plethora of ailments and conditions. Here’s some light on the health benefits of cannabis, from reducing pain to helping with anxiety, sleep disorders, and more.
First thing’s first, a comprehensive understanding of the compounds in cannabis is needed. The plant consists of more than a hundred chemicals referred to as cannabinoids. The two main types are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC produces the “high” people feel when they smoke cannabis or eat foods containing it. On the other hand, CBD is not psychoactive, meaning it will not alter your state of mind, but it does seem to produce significant changes in the body and has medical benefits.
Pain Relief is one of the most accepted use of cannabis. Both THC and CBD may help to decrease pain by altering pain perception pathways in the brain. This could be beneficial to people experiencing chronic pain, such as arthritis or migraine. The Journal of Pain outlined that medical marijuana can improve pain levels, mood, and quality of life.
A life-altering benefit of cannabis is its use in anxiety reduction. Several studies have shown that cannabidiol can alter the way our brains respond to serotonin – a chemical linked to mental health. In a 2019 study, adults with social anxiety disorder reported significant improvements in anxiety levels, cognitive impairment, and comfort in public speaking after consuming CBD.
For those battling insomnia, cannabis can also be a game changer. Certain cannabinoids, particularly THC, appear to have sleep-promoting properties. A review published in the “Clinical Drug Investigation” found individuals who used cannabis had shorter sleep latency, fewer instances of waking up in the middle of the night, and longer overall sleep duration.
A promising field for CBD use is in the treatment of epilepsy. The FDA has approved a CBD based drug called Epidiolex for the treatment of several types of severe childhood epilepsies. Clinical trials have revealed it to be effective in reducing the number of seizures in these conditions, offering hope to thousands across the globe.
Medical marijuana is also known to help with nausea, particularly that caused by chemotherapy in cancer treatment. Some studies suggest that compared to conventional anti-nausea medicines, cannabinoids (including THC) may be more effective in curbing severe nausea and vomiting. A clinical study revealed that 96% of patients reported an improvement in nausea while using cannabis.
Another area in which medical marijuana has shown promise is in the treatment of multiple sclerosis, a disease affecting the brain and nerves. According to the %National MS Society,vapourised cannabis has shown a reduction in spasms and stiffness in people with multiple sclerosis.
Despite these promising health benefits, it’s important to note that not all effects of cannabis are beneficial. It can also result in altered senses, difficulty in problem solving, altered body movements, and more when consumed recreationally without proper medical guidance. As with any substance, it’s crucial that use is moderated and done with a professional’s advice.
Overall, the landscape of medical marijuana use is ever-evolving. Nonetheless, its proven health benefits might illuminate new paths for individuals seeking relief from a myriad of health conditions and a therapeutic alternative worth considering.
