Cannabis has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, and recent scientific research has revealed its potential health benefits. Cannabis contains over 100 cannabinoids, the most well-known being delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). However, cannabis can also have adverse effects, and its use should be carefully considered and monitored by healthcare professionals. While we have only tried to present facts from scientific studies, you should know that research is still underway, and there is still much to be discovered.
Here are some of the health benefits of cannabis based on scientific research:
Provides Pain Relief:
Cannabis has been found to be effective in treating chronic pain, including pain associated with cancer, neuropathy, and multiple sclerosis. A 2015 review published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that cannabis use was associated with significant reductions in chronic pain. It’s, however, important that you only buy quality cannabis edibles from a trusted platform.
Helps Fight Anxiety and Depression:
Cannabis contains antidepressant and anxiolytic properties. According to a 2019 study in the Journal of Clinical Psychology, CBD helped patients with social anxiety disorder feel less anxious. It’s crucial to remember that THC can, in some people, have negative impacts on anxiety and mental health.
Controls Nausea and Vomiting:
Cannabis has been proven to be helpful in relieving chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting. According to a review from 2015 that was included in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, cannabis was superior to placebo in lowering nausea and vomiting brought on by chemotherapy.
Treats Muscle Spasms and Spasticity:
Multiple sclerosis-related muscular spasticity and spasms have been successfully treated with cannabis. In individuals with multiple sclerosis, cannabis-based medications considerably reduced spasticity, according to a 2018 analysis that was published in the Journal of Neurology.
Reduces Epilepsy:
In animal models of inflammatory bowel disease and arthritis, CBD was proven to lessen inflammation, according to a review published in the Journal of Cannabis Research in 2019. However, not everyone should consume cannabis, especially if they have a history of mental illness or drug abuse.
Contains Anti-Inflammatory Properties
A 2019 review published in the Journal of Cannabis Research found that CBD reduced inflammation in animal models of arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. However, cannabis use may not be appropriate for everyone, particularly those with a history of mental illness or substance abuse. Cannabis also has neuroprotective properties. According to a 2018 study that was published in the Journal of Neurochemistry, CBD shielded neurons in Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease animal models.
Has Anti-Cancer Effects
In animal models of breast, lung, prostate, and colorectal cancer, cannabinoids were found to be able to prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells, according to a 2019 review published in the journal Cancers.
You should also know that while cannabis has potential health benefits, it can also have adverse effects on some individuals. THC can cause anxiety, paranoia, and impaired memory and cognitive function, especially in high doses. Cannabis can also cause respiratory problems when smoked, and long-term use can lead to addiction and dependence.