Cannabis, often referred to as marijuana, has been at the center of a longstanding and controversial debate worldwide. While many associate it with recreational use and the consequent legal controversies, there is another dimension that is now gaining attention – the potential health benefits of medical marijuana.
For some people, the term marijuana might elicit images of laid-back “stoners”. However, a growing body of scientific research suggests that cannabis may offer a range of therapeutic effects. Central to these benefits is a compound known as Cannabidiol (CBD).
CBD is one of over a hundred compounds found in cannabis. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the primary psychoactive compound, CBD does not produce a “high.” Instead, it boasts several potential health benefits.
One such benefit is pain relief. The human body contains a specialized system called the endocannabinoid system (ECS), involved in regulating various functions such as sleep, appetite, pain, and immune system response. The body produces endocannabinoids, which are neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors in the nervous system. Interestingly, studies have shown that CBD may help reduce chronic pain by impacting endocannabinoid receptor activity, reducing inflammation, and interacting with neurotransmitters.
Additionally, CBD may also alleviate symptoms related to anxiety and depression. According to a study conducted by the University of São Paulo, 57 men received either oral CBD or a placebo 90 minutes before undergoing a simulated public speaking test. The researchers found that a 300-mg dose of CBD was the most effective at significantly reducing anxiety during the test.
Another potential health benefit of cannabis is for those grappling with insomnia. Evidence suggests that CBD can help treat both the symptoms and underlying causes of insomnia, such as chronic pain, anxiety, and PTSD.
Medical marijuana has also been famed for its potential role in treating epilepsy. In fact, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Epidiolex, a CBD oral solution for treating two rare and severe forms of epilepsy.
Cannabis and cancer. These two words might seem unlikely partners, but some research suggests that CBD could reduce symptoms related to cancer and side effects related to cancer treatment, like nausea, vomiting, and pain. However, more research is required to fully prove and understand the potential anti-cancer properties of cannabis.
Furthermore, the benefits of cannabis could extend to those with multiple sclerosis (MS), a disease of the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms can differ widely and may include fatigue, difficulty walking, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, and problems with coordination and balance. However, short-term use of medical marijuana might decrease symptoms of spasticity in some people with MS.
Lastly, one of the most well-known uses of medical marijuana is for the treatment of nausea, especially in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Blessed with anti-nausea properties, cannabis may offer relief to patients enduring this debilitating side effect.
In conclusion, the potential health benefits of marijuana are vast, stretching from pain relief and anxiety reduction to improving symptoms of serious diseases like cancer, epilepsy, and MS. While medical cannabis certainly does hold potential, it is imperative to remember that more extensive research is necessary. Always consult with a health professional before self-administrating CBD or any form of medical marijuana, ensuring that the potential benefits outweigh the risks based on your individual health profile.
Sources:
1. Healthline
2. Harvard Health Blog
3. Sleep Foundation
