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Medical marijuana, or MMJ/MC, has been gaining momentum in the health and wellness world of holistic and naturopathic practices that have begun to go mainstream. Here we discuss the health benefits of cannabis, as it is, refers to the use of the marijuana plant for medicinal purposes. Сontaining over a hundred chemical compounds known as cannabinoids, weed shows a variety of potential therapeutic effects. The most popular is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), as it creates famous psychoactive effects one might get. However, another compound is as popular as THC, and that is cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive substance that has been more or less thoroughly studied and shows certain positive effects.
This post is intended as information and for general knowledge only. It is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is recommended that you talk to a healthcare professional about this before introducing cannabinoids into your daily routine (especially if you have been diagnosed with any medical conditions or are under any medication). It is not recommended to drive or operate any machinery when using cannabis- or hemp-derived products. Use responsibly!
Potential Medical Benefits of Marijuana
Cannabinoids have numerous medical benefits, with each of them addressing certain issues. Some other benefits of medical marijuana include reducing nausea and vomiting and improving appetite and sleep.
There are many forms of MMJ, including oil, tinctures, and edibles. It can be consumed through inhalation, ingestion, or topical application. While there is still a need for more studies to fully realize the medical benefits of marijuana, it is clear that MC can be a safe and effective treatment option for a variety of conditions.
Chronic Pain Relief
MMJ has been shown to be effective in the treatment of chronic pain, particularly for individuals who have not responded well to traditional pain management techniques. MC works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in pain perception and regulation.
Improved Lung Capacity
There is some evidence to suggest that MMJ may have the potential to improve lung capacity when used in other forms than smoking. Making anything long-term has consequences. However, other delivery methods may introduce bronchodilator effects, meaning it can help to open up the airways and ease breathing issues for those who have trouble with it.
Weight Loss
MC has been shown to have the potential to aid in weight loss and the management of body weight. The chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant, such as THCV, might regulate appetite and metabolism, which can help to promote weight loss and prevent obesity.
Managing (even possibly preventing) Diabetes
MMJ may aid in the management of diabetes, as cannabinoids have been shown to regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
Treating Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, PTSD
MC can potentially aid in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. One study claims that cannabinoids may minimize the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress-related behaviors.
Managing Outbursts in those with Autism
Cannabinoids are also believed to have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, which may be beneficial for individuals with autism. One study concluded that MC is connected with improvements in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors in individuals with autism. Additionally, MMJ has been shown to reduce anxiety and improve sleep in individuals with autism, which can be beneficial for overall quality of life.
Regulating Seizures
Cannabinoids might help to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures. A 2023 study found that marijuana was associated with a significant reduction in the frequency of seizures in individuals with epilepsy who did not respond to traditional medications. Additionally, marijuana has been shown to reduce the severity of seizures in individuals with other neurological conditions, such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease.
Bone Healing, Strengthening
It is claimed that cannabinoids have anti-inflammatory and bone-stimulating effects, which can help to promote bone growth and repair. One study found that marijuana was associated with an increase in bone density and strength in animal models, suggesting that it may have the potential to be effective in the treatment of various related medical conditions.
ADD/ADHD
Cannabinoids can help to improve focus and concentration in individuals with ADHD. One study found that marijuana was associated with improvements in attention and hyperactivity in individuals with ADHD who did not respond well to traditional medications.
Glaucoma
Marijuana has been shown to have the potential to aid in the treatment of glaucoma. There are conflicting research results concerning the use of cannabis to treat glaucoma, but there can be seen a certain potential.
Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Dementia
Potentially, cannabinoids can positively affect the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and dementia. It is also claimed that cannabis may be associated with improved cognitive function and reduced agitation in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, marijuana has been shown to improve mobility and reduce tremors in individuals with Parkinson’s disease and reduce inflammation, and improve sleep in individuals with dementia.
Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis (MS) can be positively affected by medical cannabis. One study found that marijuana was associated with improvements in muscle spasms, pain, and sleep in individuals with MS.
Arthritis
Marijuana has been shown to have the potential to aid in the treatment of arthritis. This research came to the conclusion that CBD possesses anti-arthritic activity and might ameliorate arthritis.
Hepatitis C
There is a study that concluded that cannabis use was consistently associated with smaller waist circumference, lower BMI, and lower risks of overweight, obesity, and central obesity in patients with chronic Hepatitis C infection.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Marijuana was associated with improvements in abdominal pain, bloating, and bowel movements in individuals with IBS. Additionally, marijuana has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve appetite in individuals with IBS, which can improve the overall quality of life.
Alcoholism and Addiction
This article has covered in detail how cannabis can be a better and less damaging substitution for alcohol or other heavily addictive medication. Not only can cannabis be more effective in alleviating certain symptoms, but it also minimizes the use of dangerous substances.
Summary
So, what are the benefits and hazards of medical marijuana? MC has been shown to have numerous medical advantages. Its chemical compounds tend to have anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and mood-stabilizing effects, which can be beneficial in alleviating the symptoms of a wide range of conditions. Some potential benefits of medical marijuana include reducing pain (including chronic), improving sleep and appetite in individuals with HIV/AIDS, regulating seizures, improving lung capacity, aiding in weight loss, and managing diabetes. Additionally, marijuana has been shown to have the potential to aid in the treatment of conditions such as autism, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, hepatitis C, and alcoholism and addiction.
It is important to note that while there are potential medical benefits of marijuana, MC can not substitute traditional evidence-based treatment and should be used in conjunction with other therapies and medications. As with any potential treatment option, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider before introducing MMJ into your life.
