Cannabis as a plant has a rich history which proves that it has been in use for thousands of years by multiple cultures. It was used for health, beauty, recreation and a better lifestyle. The various parts derived from cannabis like its strains, CBD oil, THC, cannabis seeds are all utilized for their miraculous properties.
At present, it is not legalized worldwide. Its use continues to be controversial and frowned upon. Several medical organizations have initiated the removal of marijuana from the schedule 1 controlled substances list.
- Arthritis
Several studies have indicated that cannabis is highly beneficial in treating chronic pain as well as pain and inflammation related to arthritis.
- Alzheimer’s
Research conducted by Scripps Research Institute and published in Molecular Pharmaceuticals suggests that marijuana has the ability to slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s disease in the elderly.
- Epilepsy
It is known that epilepsy causes severe seizures which prevent patients from leading a normal life. Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University have conducted studies indicating that epileptic seizures can be controlled and may even stop with marijuana-based treatment.
- Anxiety
Marijuana has anti-anxiolytic effects when used in moderation. A higher dosage can lead to paranoia and an increased level of anxiety. These conclusions were derived by Harvard Medical School.
- Cancer
The ‘ID- 1; gene which cancer cells use to spread in the body are turned off by cannabidiol, which is a chemical compound in cannabis. This was suggested by a research published in the journal Molecular Cancer Therapeutics.
- Lung health
Contrary to popular belief, cannabis actually increases lung capacity. A research in the Journal of the American Medical Association has come to the conclusion that marijuana can be highly effective in improving lung health.
- Nausea
CBD and THC are the two main elements of cannabinoids in marijuana. The primary chemical associated with the mind-altering effects of cannabis is THC. It is often used in finding relief from nausea, which may also be induced by chemotherapy or other drugs.
- Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a severe condition which builds up pressure inside the eyeball and can even lead to loss of vision. Researchers in the medical fields are constantly trying to develop new marijuana-based drugs which can treat this condition and the pain related to it. The effectiveness of cannabis in treating glaucoma has been determined with studies. Growing auto-flowering cannabis is highly beneficial in this case.
- Parkinson’s Disease
It has been found that following a marijuana-based treatment can improve motor skills and treat tremors in patients suffering from Parkinson’s disease. This study was published in MedPage Today and has been found to be promising.
- Multiple sclerosis
A highly chronic disease, Multiple Sclerosis or MS is characterized when the immune system eats away of the protective covering of nerves. Symptoms can include double vision and weakness. Though treatment can help the patient, this is an incurable ailment. MS is chronic and can last for several years or for a lifetime.
Fortunately, a study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal has found that cannabinoids can effectively reduce the pain related to multiple sclerosis.
As seen from the above-mentioned benefits, research is helping to draw conclusions on the use of marijuana as a treatment for several diseases. There has been enormous support favoring the legalization of medical cannabis worldwide.
Every country has different laws regarding the same. Few nations have made it legal to purchase cannabis from medical dispensaries while others are far from even considering legislation.