Medical marijuana uses components of the marijuana plant to treat various medical conditions and diseases. While the actual product (cannabis) is similar to recreational marijuana, it is used for healthcare purposes rather than enjoyment.
The marijuana plant contains over 100 chemicals called cannabinoids that all have different physiological effects. The two primary cannabinoids that are utilized medically are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is known for producing the euphoric high associated with smoking or consuming marijuana, but it also underlies some of marijuana’s applications in medicine.
The Green Potential
Cannabis compounds have been increasingly linked to various effects, such as appetite stimulation, relaxation promotion, and even the induction of euphoria. These effects, among others, are primarily facilitated by the endocannabinoid system, a cell-signalling network present in our bodies. It is noteworthy that cannabinoids, chemical compounds found in cannabis plants, as well as naturally produced within our own bodies, exert their influence on this intricate system.
The endocannabinoid system plays a vital role in regulating fundamental processes like hunger, sleep, mood, and body temperature. Recent findings have also indicated that dysfunctions in this system could contribute to conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis, thus suggesting potential avenues for novel treatments. With more than 100 cannabinoids identified in marijuana, a significant portion of their properties still remains to be comprehended. Notably, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the most widely recognized cannabinoids.
Cannabis compounds have been increasingly linked to various effects, such as appetite stimulation, relaxation promotion, and even the induction of euphoria. These effects, among others, are primarily facilitated by the endocannabinoid system, a cell-signalling network present in our bodies. It is noteworthy that cannabinoids, chemical compounds found in cannabis plants, as well as naturally produced within our own bodies, exert their influence on this intricate system.
Cannabis in care
Cannabis is a plant that contains many compounds called cannabinoids, which can have various effects on the body and brain. Some of the most studied cannabinoids are cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which can have both medical benefits and risks. Here is a list of some diseases where cannabis is used for its treatment, along with the cause and a short description of how cannabis can help. Studies report that medical cannabis has possible benefit for several conditions including:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- HIV/AIDS
- Cancer
- Crohn’s disease
- Epilepsy and seizures
- Glaucoma
- Multiple sclerosis and muscle spasms
- Severe and chronic pain Severe nausea
Herbal Relief
The compounds in medical weed – called cannabinoids – act a lot like chemicals our own bodies produce that control things like appetite, memory, movement, and pain. Some studies show these cannabinoids could potentially:
- Reduce anxiety and stress.
- Take down inflammation and ease aches and pains.
- Stop nausea and puking from chemo.
- Kill cancer cells and maybe slow tumours from growing, though they need more research on that.
- Loosen up tight muscles for folks with multiple sclerosis.
- Spark appetites and help cancer or AIDS patients gain weight back by interacting with the body’s natural hunger centres.
Intake options
Medicinal cannabis involves the utilization of cannabis and its cannabinoids for the purpose of treating illnesses or alleviating symptoms. The primary active cannabinoids found in cannabis are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). These cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, resulting in beneficial effects.
THC is the psychoactive element responsible for the intoxicating effects commonly associated with marijuana usage, while CBD does not induce any psychoactive sensations.
Medicinal cannabis typically comes in two main forms: marijuana and hemp-based products. Marijuana is recognized for its high THC content, whereas hemp-based products contain less than 0.3% THC.
There are various methods of consuming medicinal cannabis, including:
- Oils
- Edibles
- Tinctures
- Lotions
- Inhalation methods, such as vaping or smoking.
Choosing the proper cannabis consumption method depends on your preferences, medical needs, and lifestyle.
