In today’s era, marijuana is undergoing a cultural and legal reevaluation after being categorized as an illegal substance for many decades now. Recent polls report that more and more people support the legalization of marijuana for medical or recreational purposes. Medical Marijuana uses the marijuana plant and the chemicals in it to treat diseases or conditions.
The marijuana plant contains more than 100 different chemicals referred to as cannabinoids. Each of these has a different effect on the body. Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the main chemicals present in marijuana. Although more research is still being carried to understand the composition and benefits of marijuana, here are a few benefits of using medical marijuana and how it helps:
Pain Management
The cannabinoids present in the marijuana plant may reduce pain by altering the pain perception pathways in the brain. The effect is beneficial to those suffering from conditions that cause chronic pain, such as:
- Migraines
- Arthritis
- Multiple Sclerosis
Health practitioners can help to alleviate the conditions with cannabis to relieve pain and inflammation. The THC and CBD bind to brain receptors and block pain signal transmission. Medical marijuana can also help to minimize the side effects of cancer treatment. It is a safer alternative to anti-inflammatory drugs, which can have adverse side effects.
Sleep Management
Lack of sleep resulting in insomnia can come about due to several reasons. You may constantly find yourself struggling to fall asleep, or you may have irregular sleep cycles. Medical marijuana may offer the solution you need. The relaxing effects of marijuana may help improve sleep disorders, and improved sleep may come about due to reduced pain from marijuana use. You may be feeling tired and drained throughout the day, and day napping may mess up your ability to sleep well at night. As mentioned by the people at My Bud Place, You can buy your marijuana from a certified dispensary. Sativa strains may help keep you energized and help balance your sleep cycles. Indica strains are better for those individuals who have a hard time calming down before falling asleep. It will help you relax and make it easier to fall and stay asleep.
Improves Appetite and Feeding Habits
Feeling hungry is a significant incentive that makes us feel the need to eat and keep our bodies well supplied with the nutrients it needs. However, it is not uncommon to lack the appetite to eat. Loss of appetite is a common aspect for those suffering from chronic pain. The medication used could trigger a loss of appetite, making one lack any interest in food. Medical marijuana can help those with a loss of appetite. Once THC is introduced in the body, it inhibits the production of leptin, which is an appetite suppressant present in the body. Marijuana also inhibits the feeling of nausea that can cause one to lack interest in food due to fear of vomiting. Medical marijuana can be a helpful tool in successfully managing the side effects of medication to treat chronic diseases.
Treat Neurological and Mental Disorders
Marijuana has a profound effect on the limbic system. As a result, many doctors and medical practitioners prescribe marijuana in the treatment of neurological and mental health conditions such as:
- Epilepsy
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Anxiety
- Multiple Sclerosis
Medical marijuana has also been approved in the treatment of PTSD. Cannabis has helped many veterans diagnosed with PTSD finally find some peace and relief. Cannabis helps to regulate the body’s system that produces fear and anxiety. It is also a good remedy for nightmares, which are a constant presence in those diagnosed with PTSD. It helps reduce nightmare intensity and daytime flashbacks. It also helps to improve the quality and quantity of sleep for those who have PTSD.
Reduce Inflammation
The CBD present in marijuana has been reported to help reduce inflammation. It is therefore helpful for those with inflammatory conditions and allows them to achieve some form of relief. Some of these inflammatory conditions include:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Crohn’s disease
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Even though most of these conditions may take on various forms, they all cause pain and swelling. Marijuana readily acts to relieve pain and reduce inflammation throughout the body of the individual. CBD oils could also be applied to the arthritic areas to ease inflammation and relieve pain without the adverse side effects of synthesized painkillers and medication.
To get medical marijuana in the states and areas allowed, you need a written recommendation from a licensed doctor. It would help if you also had a medical condition that qualifies the use of medical marijuana use as per the state’s laws. It may also be a requirement to get a medical marijuana ID card that will allow you to buy medical marijuana in states with recent legalization, such as South Dakota and several others, so you get to enjoy the numerous benefits to your health as a result of marijuana use.