All around the nation, and even the world, the use of cannabis in medical settings has been growing. From treatment of chronic pain to combating chemotherapy side effects, the applications of this substance are wide ranging and powerful. In many areas in the US, it is now possible to receive medical cannabis certification in order to be prescribed.
Depending on the state you live in, there are different substances available. Some states only allow cannabis to be ingested in pill form, while others may have completely legalized marijuana available in all forms. If you are interested in medical cannabis use, the first person you should talk to is your doctor. Your physician will be able to help you decide if this is a good therapy for you, and what form of the medication would be best.
Could it be right for you? Let’s go over some uses of cannabis in medicine today. There are two psychoactive components of marijuana: CBD and THC. You will see these discussed in reference to the different treatments.
● Anxiety and PTSD
There have been studies performed to see how both THC and CBD work with patients who suffer from various forms of anxiety and PTSD. Apparently, at low levels, THC can alleviate these symptoms, but higher doses can make them worse. CBD, however, is effective in reducing anxiety at all levels.
● Cancer and Chemotherapy
Marijuana has been found to be extremely helpful in combating the nausea and lack of appetite that people suffering from cancer can face. Chemotherapy can save lives but it is a very toxic and strenuous treatment. Many people lose their hair, lose weight, and suffer other very unpleasant and painful side effects. Using marijuana can help relieve the pain and nausea associated with the treatment and with the disease itself.
● Crohn’s Disease
Studies are still ongoing for the use of marijuana on this painful disorder. More evidence is needed but preliminary studies show that some people have experienced less pain and nausea from their Crohn's disease after using marijuana. Both THC and CBD were tested with good results, and there will be more research performed in the future.
● Seizures
This is a disorder that has had a lot more research performed when it comes to the effects of cannabis. And the findings are very encouraging! Both THC and CBD have been found to help stop or prevent seizures in people with epilepsy and other disorders such as Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. These seizures are painful, disorienting, disruptive and potentially life-threatening. Using cannabis to treat these occurrences can change someone’s whole quality of life for the better.
There have been many years of studies and investigations about the use of cannabis in treating a whole array of ailments. Some people tout it as a medical miracle, while some still believe it is a dangerous substance. The decision will ultimately be made by you, after you get advice and guidance from your doctor. It may be worth it to go into the situation with an open mind.