The use of cannabis continues to be highly regulated. Its legalization is also controlled as many states only approve the use of marijuana for recreational reasons. Despite the myths and negativity associated with the use of cannabis, there are significant medicinal benefits that can be derived from this plant.
1. Management of Chronic Pain
Cannabis contains products called cannabinoids which are very effective in reducing chronic pain. Cannabinoids’ action in the central nervous system regulates how cells send or receive messages. Thus, the products help reduce pain by disrupting how pain receptors in the brain receive and interpret pain signals. In the United States, more than 25 million adults are suffering from disabilities caused by chronic pain.
2. Reliving Mental Health Disorders
This could be the most surprising medical benefit of using cannabis. The common knowledge is that cannabis increases cases of mental health problems. However, there is evidence that cannabis could be used to reduce the effects of depression, anxiety, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). A review of 31 studies about the use of cannabis for therapeutic reasons among 23,850 participants showed evidence of cannabis use for the treatment of mental health issues. However, the researchers have cautioned against using marijuana products to treat other psychological disorders.
3. Smoking Cannabis Can Help Fight Obesity
Obesity is one of the health problems affecting people across the world. Sometimes, meal plans and workouts may not help you achieve the expected results regarding your weight. Surprisingly, smoking cannabis can help you become thinner. The Conference of Quebec University Health Center examined 700 adults aged between 18 and 74. The results indicated that cannabis smokers have a low body mass index. The study concluded that cannabis smokers are less likely to be obese than nonsmokers. Thus, even if you don’t get thinner by smoking cannabis, your risks of becoming obese are minimized.
4. Killing Cancer Cells
Cancer has become one of the most dangerous health issues facing people today. It is no longer a problem for older people. Everyone is at risk of getting cancer. However, cannabis can manage this menace since it has been found to kill cancer cells. The FDA has approved the use of Cannabinoids in the management of cancer. Smoking marijuana could therefore reduce the risk of cancer diseases in smokers compared to nonsmokers.
5. Treatment of Cancer Treatment Side Effects
Apart from the treatment of cancer, cannabis can also be used to treat and manage side effects from cancer treatment. The management of pain in a cancer patient is done using cannabis products such as cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-THC. The FDA has also approved the use of Dronabinol and Nabilone. These are two critical drugs from cannabis products that have registered remarkable results in preventing and treating nausea and vomiting resulting from chemotherapy. Additionally, any side effect of cancer therapies, including loss of appetite, can be treated using cannabis products.
Although the use of cannabis products can have different health benefits, it is crucial to adhere to the cannabis regulations in your state. The use of cannabis products for therapeutic purposes is still under intense study. More cannabis products may be available to users for medical purposes in the future.
