In recent years, cannabis has become a revolutionary medical treatment for several conditions. Cannabis, also known as marijuana and weed, is a drug from the cannabis plant. It has been used in traditional medicines for centuries. It is also used for recreational and entheogenic purposes. Cannabis has been proven to alleviate numerous symptoms. Its diverse health benefits can improve quality of life and help with conditions initially deemed untreatable. In this article, we explore some of the common conditions that cannabis is being used to treat.
1. Chronic Pain
One of the most common conditions that cannabis is used to treat is chronic pain. Some individuals suffering from arthritis, fibromyalgia, and neuropathy turn to cannabis to ease the constant discomfort they feel. While cannabis cannot cure these conditions, its THC and CBD compounds reduce inflammation and relieve the pain by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system.
2. Seizure Disorders
Cannabis has been very beneficial in treating seizure disorders. Seizure disorders such as epilepsy impair individuals’ strength and ability to function. The CBD compound in cannabis has a remarkable impact on seizure disorders, reducing the frequency and severity of epilepsy syndromes like Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut. Individuals with treatment-resistant epilepsy have improved their quality of life by using Epidiolex, a medication derived from cannabis and approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
3. Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Muscle Spasticity
Individuals suffering from multiple sclerosis are experiencing persistent muscle stiffness, spasms, and pain. This chronic disease can severely affect mobility. Cannabis products with high levels of THC can relax muscles, reduce spasms, and relieve pain, according to studies. Many individuals who have used cannabis to treat this condition have reported that they feel less physical discomfort and can sleep better.
4. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD is a nerve-wracking condition that causes flashbacks, anxiety, and disrupted sleep. Many people with PTSD struggle in their daily lives. Some people use traditional therapy for support, and others have found that cannabis is an effective alternative. Studies show that THC promotes quality sleep by reducing nightmares. The compound also alleviates anxiety. Meanwhile, the CBD calms the fight-or-flight response. This allows individuals such as veterans to regain a sense of normalcy.
5. Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis
Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis are inflammatory bowel diseases that significantly impair quality of life. These conditions cause symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, weight loss, and diarrhoea. However, medical cannabis has been reducing these symptoms in many patients, who experience fewer disease flares after starting their cannabis treatments. This is due to the anti-inflammatory properties in cannabis that can soothe the digestive tract, relieve pain, and increase appetite.
6. Anxiety and Depression
Some individuals suffering from anxiety and depression can experience an improved quality of life by taking medical cannabis. Cannabis is renowned for reducing stress and promoting relaxation due to its calming effect. This helps to manage anxiety, stress, and depression. However, if the right dosage and strain are not taken and individuals consume an excess amount of THC, their symptoms can worsen.
7. Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia
Millions of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are agitated, aggressive, and anxious. Research initially indicated that these behavioural symptoms could be treated with medical cannabis, but there are limited scientific studies supporting this. The research indicated that cannabis can help slow the formation of amyloid plaques, an indicator of Alzheimer’s. However, more research is being conducted to confirm if high-CBD formulations of medical cannabis will be an effective solution for Alzheimer’s patients.
A Promising Future
Medical cannabis continues to be effective in alleviating conditions and improving quality of life. While it is not a cure-all, it is a versatile and effective medication that can help many people. If you are considering taking cannabis to treat these health conditions, highlighted in an MSN article, or any other conditions, you must consult a healthcare professional who specialises in cannabis medicine.