Understanding the plant
Medical Cannabis
Cannabis contains hundreds of different compounds known as secondary metabolites which have therapeutic properties. One group of these compounds are known as cannabinoids, of which there are over 140 different ones, which have been found to have various medicinal properties.
Medical cannabis has gained increasing popularity as an alternative treatment for a range of medical conditions.
Medical effects
One of the most well-known benefits of medical cannabis is its ability to relieve chronic pain. Cannabis has been used for centuries as a natural pain reliever, and studies have shown that it can be effective in treating pain associated with conditions such as multiple sclerosis, arthritis, and neuropathy. Cannabinoids mainly work by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating pain, among other functions.
Medical cannabis has also been found to be an effective antiemetic, as it can treat symptoms associated with nausea and vomiting. This is particularly true for individuals undergoing chemotherapy, who often experience severe nausea and vomiting as a side effect of their treatment.
Another benefit of medical cannabis is its ability to reduce anxiety and improve mood. Cannabinoids interact with the brain’s receptors that regulate mood, and several studies have found that cannabis can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. This makes medical cannabis a promising treatment option for individuals with mental health conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Medical cannabis has also been found to be effective in treating seizures and epilepsy. Cannabinoids have been found to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures, and some studies have shown that cannabis can be particularly effective in treating childhood epilepsy syndromes, such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
Finally, medical cannabis has been found to be a promising treatment option for individuals with neurodegenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Cannabinoids have been found to have neuroprotective properties, meaning they can protect brain cells from damage and promote the growth of new brain cells. This makes medical cannabis a potentially powerful treatment option for individuals with conditions that cause cognitive decline.
In addition to these benefits, medical cannabis has also been found to have anti-inflammatory and anti-tumour properties, and it may be effective in treating a range of other medical conditions, including glaucoma and Crohn’s disease.
*Disclaimer: While this content has been reviewed by scientific and medical experts, it is for informational purposes only, and should not be taken as professional medical advice.
