Medical marijuana is known to stir up controversy among healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers. Several states are yet to legalize medical marijuana and do not allow the sale of marijuana products in the State.
With 22 States legalizing medical marijuana, it is the cash crop that is taking the country by storm. In these states, you will find medical marijuana dispensaries mushrooming all over. Here’s how medical marijuana can help improve your overall health.
Helps Ease Aches and Pains That Come with Age
For elderly Americans, medical marijuana can be a blessing in disguise. It is known to be safer than opium products because you can’t overdose on it, and it is not addictive. It is preferred over anti-inflammatory drugs as many can’t use them due to kidney problems or ulcers.
Medical marijuana is particularly useful in treating the pain associated with arthritis and multiple sclerosis. These conditions do have medicines that act as a sedative to relieve pain. Patients, however, reported that marijuana allowed them to resume normal activities without feeling disengaged.
Reduces Tremors in Parkinson’s Disease Patients
Marijuana is known to work as a muscle relaxant and reduce tremors for those who have Parkinson’s disease. These patients have fewer CB1 receptors, and marijuana can help boost these receptors to improve the patient’s quality of life. While more research is required on exactly how cannabinoids react in the patient’s body, the initial results are promising.
Helps Those with Anxiety, Depression, and PTSD
Medical marijuana has proved to be promising in treating people suffering from anxiety, depression, and PTSD. It is known to uplift mood, and reduce tension. The benefits of treating anxiety are better than the rest. Marijuana reduced the reliance of patients on anxiety-reducing benzodiazepines by up to 47%.
In war veterans, cannabinoids have been found to reduce “fear memories.” War veterans usually experience PTSD. They have terrifying nightmares and overreact to the slightest of noise. A California study found that such patients had fewer nightmares after using medical marijuana and were less sensitive to audio triggers.
Helps Ease Side-Effects of Cancer Treatment
Cancer patients suffer from extreme pain. They also experience nausea, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Marijuana helps ease these concerns and improve appetite among patients undergoing cancer treatment. Medical marijuana dispensaries have elevated the well-being of many cancer patients.
Cures Insomnia
A study in Colorado found that one in three people using medical marijuana reported sleeping better. This could be due to the THC and the CBD plugging into the brain’s receptors to improve sleep. Dosage is key. A little THC can allow you to sleep better, but a little too much, and you may end up with a high.
Helps with Other Health Conditions
Researchers are exploring the benefits of medical marijuana in other health conditions. The results look promising in Alzheimer's disease and dementia, Crohn's disease, and glaucoma. Patients across the board have reported improved quality of life with the help of medical marijuana.
With more people appreciating the benefits of medical marijuana, the industry is on a fast track to growth. Medical marijuana dispensaries are making life easier for patients with a variety of health concerns. Don’t wait anymore. Let marijuana make a difference in your life.
