Although at times controversial, cannabis (including medical marijuana) is historic and multidimensional. Its versatility and various uses have paved the way for its entry into a wide range of products and industries, particularly in the field of medicine.
About Cannabis
Understanding what cannabis is all about involves some science. Cannabis comprises over 120 components, known as cannabinoids. CBD (canabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are the two most-researched and well-known cannabinoids.
The “high” associated with cannabis is triggered by THC. On the other hand, CBD is non-intoxicating and non-euphoric. It usually comes in the form of gummies, drinks, oils, and other products for medical applications.
Is Medical Marijuana FDA-Approved?
The Epidiolex canabidiol received approval in 2018 for the treatment of seizures linked to two severe and rare forms of epilepsy – Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. The FDA likewise approved two human made cannabinoid drugs – nabilone (Cesamet) and dronabinol (Marinol, Syndros) to help treat vomiting and nausea caused by chemotherapy.
The Health Benefits of Cannabis
Without a doubt, CBD has risen in popularity, and has spawned a new industry. In fact, there are now schools that offer degrees in Cannabis Entrepreneurship.
Although researchers are still trying to learn more about how CBD can be effectively used for medical applications, a lot of encouraging results have already come out.
This post will discuss seven health benefits that CBD has been proven to provide.
Lowers Blood Pressure
In a 2017 study done by JCI insight, the results showed that CBD helped lower blood pressure of the participants. Resting blood pressure, and the blood pressure after doing stress tests that included isometric exercise, mental arithmetic, and cold pressor test, were lower.
Reduces Inflammation
Medical marijuana has been proven to aid in reducing inflammation, as well as the neuropathic pain that comes with it. This is according to one of the studies conducted by the medical research team of the Rockefeller Institute.
Prevents Relapse in Alcohol and Drug Addiction Cases
People who are trying to recover from alcohol and drug addiction can benefit from CBD, according to a 2018 study. A pre-clinical trial done on lab rats showed that CBD was able to reduce stress-induced anxiety, cravings, and the lack of impulse control, which often trigger a relapse in people suffering from addiction.
Helps Treat Anxiety Disorders
Perhaps the most common condition that people use CBD for is anxiety. According to a study, CBD can be effective in relieving generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Relieves Gastrointestinal (GI) Disorders
CBD, as well as other types of non-psychoactive cannabinoids, can be used effectively in preventing and treating GI disorders like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis, among others. The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD are responsible for preventing and reducing symptoms.
Prevents Seizures
Lots of research have been done on how CBD can help in treating epilepsy and other similar seizure syndromes. According to a recent study, CBD offers positive effects in decreasing the frequency and severity of symptoms.
Fights Cancer
Aside from alleviating the excruciating effects of chemotherapy, studies have found out that CBD can also prevent the growth of cancer cells. It was also shown to trigger destruction of cervical cancer cells. CBD has many anti-cancer properties that can help avoid various types of cancer, treat tumors, and enhance the immune system.
Aside from these known benefits, more are undergoing further research and testing.
Side Effects of Medical Marijuana
Although cannabis offers myriads of benefits, it also comes with some reported side effects that you need to take note of. These include the following:
- Depression
- Dizziness
- Bloodshot eyes
- Hallucinations
- Fast heartbeat
- Low blood pressure
CBD is also reported to affect coordination and judgment that can lead to injuries and accidents. When used while the brain is still in its developing stages such as the teenage years, the substance can affect mental function and IQ.
Also, because medical marijuana contains a number of the same chemicals in tobacco, there are concerns that smoking marijuana can be harmful to the lungs. Although the effects of inhaling marijuana on the health of the lungs are not clear, some evidence exist that it can cause bronchitis and other similar lung issues.
Marijuana tends to be addictive. It is commonly seen as a “gateway drug.” The more often you use the substance, and the higher THC levels you consume, the higher the tendency for you to become dependent.
Another concern is the fact that the FDA does not oversee medical marijuana or CBD the same way it does on prescription medicines. While the state may monitor and regulate sales, they usually don’t have sufficient resources for the purpose. Thus, the ingredients and strength in medical marijuana can vary widely, depending on where it is bought.
How Do You Obtain Medical Marijuana?
Is you want to get some medical marijuana, you need to first secure a written recommendation from a physician who is licensed in a state where it is legal. Note that not all doctors would be willing to prescribe the substance for their patients.
To be eligible for a recommendation, you must be suffering from a condition that is qualified to use medical marijuana. Every state has a different list of qualified conditions. Depending on the state, you may also need to get an ID card for medical marijuana. You can present the card when buying medical marijuana from a dispensary authorized to sell the substance.
Final Word
One of the touchiest topics today is cannabis or marijuana – both from health and legal perspectives.
Arguably, the health benefits of cannabis needs deeper and more research for both debating sides to agree on the use of the substance in recreational and medical settings.
For the time being, if you want to learn more about the possible benefits of medical marijuana for you, you can talk to your doctor. He can provide you with proven information on the benefits, as well as the potential risks of the substance. Your doctor will likewise inform you on the legalities involved in getting a medical marijuana card, if necessary in your state of residence.
Never attempt to use any substance or drug to relieve any medical condition without your doctor’s supervision.
To know more about the health benefits of cannabis, and how to obtain high quality cannabis products, visit Industrial Green Solution.