One of the indisputable aspects of marijuana’s growing popularity is its medicinal benefits.
Numerous and continuous scientific research backs its capabilities to heal our bodies and minds in various ways. And that is also one of the main catalysts behind the growing legislation to legalize cannabis use in states across the country.
Not sure if you’re ready to buy into the hype yet? Learn more about it with the seven benefits of marijuana for medical use.
Table of Contents
1. Approved to Treat Epilepsy
What gives marijuana its medical-use prowess is a compound called cannabidiol (also known as CBD).
CBD is the part of the cannabis plant brimming with nutrients that make it a popular ingredient in everything from pain-relief medications to soothing face moisturizers.
But back to its medical properties. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a CBD oral solution in the treatment of seizures for people who have one of two rare epileptic disorders.
While it’s not yet completely understood how CBD helps, it is believed that it interacts with brain receptors responsible for epileptic seizure episodes.
2. Relief for Glaucoma Sufferers
Glaucoma is an eye disorder in which optic nerve damage causes vision impairment and eye discomfort.
Marijuana is becoming a common treatment for glaucoma and is even considered as good of treatment as more mainstream glaucoma medications.
How does it help? The cannabinoids in marijuana reduce intraocular pressure, reducing pain and damage in the process.
3. It Puts Upset Stomachs to Rest
There are many digestive issues that marijuana is known to cure, too.
Research shows that it helps those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) better manage their symptoms. It also seems to be effective in those who suffer chronic nausea.
Marijuana cannabinoids reduce inflammation and slow down the production of stomach acids, two factors that make digestive issues painful and incessant.
And, unlike some prescription medications, medical marijuana does not adversely affect those with sensitive stomachs.
4. Sounder Sleep
Anyone with even common levels of stress suffers the occasional restless night.
But for people with medical issues, insomnia can be recurrent and extra damaging.
Because of the relaxing properties of marijuana, it is considered an excellent natural sleep aid. Its effectiveness is due to the fact that it can relax the mind as well as the body.
Marijuana’s calming effects also make it a wonderful option for those with anxiety, depression, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
5. Marijuana Hearts Your Heart
Marijuana’s compounds have a couple of massive benefits that can mean a happier, healthier ticker. As mentioned, it serves as an anti-inflammatory in different parts of the body, including the heart.
Marijuana is also antioxidative, meaning it can lower oxidative stress that leads to heart disease and strokes. A 2017 study shows that marijuana cannabidiol reduced blood pressure in healthy volunteers undergoing stress tests.
So while no one with heart disease should toss away their medications and apply for a state medical marijuana card, it is worth discussing with your doctor.
6. Appetite Stimulant
For people undergoing treatment for certain diseases and viruses, notably cancer and HIV, a loss of appetite is a common occurrence.
Treatments and medications can make patients feel less than great, with nausea being a major side effect.
But skipping meals and missing out on nutrients that support your body during recovery is not an option. This is where marijuana can help, too.
Marijuana is an appetite stimulant. Combine that with its anti-inflammatory and digestive-easing properties, and eating meals that strengthen your body can become routine again.
7. Slow Tumor Growth
In studies by the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), pure strains of marijuana compounds CBD and THC can drastically reduce cancerous tumor growths.
AACR even considers the components of medical marijuana better than radiation treatments in reducing tumor size.
Conclusion
Though plenty of research is still needed, it’s safe to say that the benefits of marijuana for medical use are pretty thrilling.
As studies continue and we learn more about marijuana and its medicinal properties, we may experience medical breakthroughs we never thought possible in our lifetime.
But for now, starting the conversation with your doctor about medical marijuana and what it can mean to your health is a great goal to have.