Cannabis and drugs that contain it may be helpful for several health conditions. These include reducing the number of seizures in people with certain rare forms of epilepsy, relieving nausea and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy, and improving appetite in patients with HIV/AIDS.
CBD is an active ingredient in marijuana and has been shown to reduce pain from inflammation. It’s also a natural sleep aid. Cannabis education helps individuals understand how to use it safely and responsibly. This includes information about dosage, potential risks, and harm reduction strategies. With legalization in many places, it’s essential to ensure that users are well-informed to prevent misuse or overconsumption.
Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple Sclerosis is when the body’s immune system attacks its nervous system, causing symptoms such as muscle stiffness, pain, fatigue, and sleep problems. Studies have found that CBD, a compound found in cannabis that does not produce a high, can help alleviate MS symptoms by reducing inflammation and improving muscle movement. It does this by blocking certain receptors, such as the CB1 receptor. Additionally, cannabis can reduce inflammation and immune cell activity, which may help prevent MS flare-ups. Research also suggests that cannabis can aid in repairing nerve myelin in MS patients, which is an important factor in slowing down the progression of the disease.
A class I trial using Nabiximols (THC/CBD oral spray) found that medicinal cannabis improved tremors and bladder complaints in people with MS. However, a larger clinical study found that it did not significantly impact the rate of progression of disability as measured by EDSS or other rating scales. Despite this, several studies suggest that medicinal cannabis can improve HRQoL in people with MS.
Chronic Pain
Cannabis and products containing the two main cannabinoids, THC and CBD, are powerful pain relievers and opioid medications. They can be taken as a pill, spray, or oil. They can also be smoked or vaporized. They work by mimicking the body’s endocannabinoid system. A recent study found that cannabis soothed arthritis in lab rats.
Cannabis can ease many conditions, including cancer-related pain, fibromyalgia, peripheral neuropathy, and multiple sclerosis spasticity. It can also help treat nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. It can reduce the pressure inside the eyes that causes glaucoma.
The plight of the opioid epidemic has prompted many physicians to seek alternatives for chronic pain. And cannabis has been a strong contender. In a study, patients treated with marijuana reported better scores on a standardized questionnaire of health-related quality of life than people taking opioids. But, it’s important to consult a medical professional before trying cannabis for your chronic pain.
Depression
Depression is a debilitating mental health condition ranging from mild to severe. It is characterized by a persistently low mood and anhedonia (the inability to enjoy previously pleasurable activities). Traditional treatments include exercise, sleep hygiene, a healthy diet, meditation, and psychotherapy.
These treatments might be time-consuming and have adverse effects, including tiredness and diminished motivation. Cannabis can assist with depression symptoms like exhaustion by encouraging better sleep and lowering anxiety.
Cannabis may also help to lift low moods by increasing serotonin levels, an important neurotransmitter in the brain that affects our emotions and sense of well-being. It can also aid insomnia and chronic stress, often linked to depression. People should experiment with different strains and dosages for the best results to find what works for them. A popular option is Granddaddy Purple, which contains terpenes such as myrcene, pinene, and linalool, known for their relaxation properties.
Anxiety
Anxiety is a common mental health condition that can cause your heart rate to increase, make you feel restless or tense, and lead to ruminative thoughts. Anxiety symptoms can also include headaches, insomnia, and fear or dread.
Cannabis appears useful for alleviating anxiety in animal studies and several small-scale surveys. To support these results, more high-quality clinical studies are required.
By inhibiting the enzyme FAAH, which breaks down serotonin, CBD, which does not have the same euphoric effects as THC, can assist some patients with their anxiety symptoms. A chemical called serotonin lowers anxiety and despair. Terpenes that assist in soothing your body and mind, can also be helpful for anxiety.
