Although marijuana has historically been seen as a recreational drug, studies have shown that it can have plenty of medical applications as well. Let’s take a look at some of the ways that medical marijuana can improve your quality of life.
1. Lowering Your Blood Pressure
A 2017 study published in JCI Insight found that cannabidiol (CBD) reduced blood pressure in participants. CBD, a well-researched cannabinoid found in marijuana alongside tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), differs from THC in that it is non-intoxicating and does not cause a euphoric high. Commonly available in oils, gummies, beverages, and medical products, CBD has demonstrated an ability to lower both resting blood pressure and blood pressure levels following stress tests.
2. Reducing Inflammation
CBD has also been proven to reduce inflammation and neuropathic pain associated with it. This makes it useful for treating chronic pain associated with arthritis and other similar conditions. Reducing inflammation will help alleviate pain and improve your quality of life.
3. Treating Anxiety Disorders
Studies have shown that medical marijuana is highly effective in treating anxiety disorders. In fact, it may be the most common use for CBD and medical marijuana. Patients living with generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder have all responded well to medical marijuana and CBD treatments.
4. Treating Gastrointestinal Disorders
CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties make it an effective treatment for gastrointestinal (GI) disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. One study has shown that CBD may help reduce and even prevent symptoms associated with these conditions.
5. Helping to Fight Cancer
Medical marijuana has long been used to alleviate the side effects of chemotherapy in cancer patients, but studies have shown that it may be used to fight certain kinds of cancer more directly. While it’s not exactly a cure for cancer, CBD has been shown to prevent cell growth and induce cell death in some cervical cancer lines. CBD seems to have other anti-cancer effects that can treat tumors and strengthen the immune system in those battling cancer.
6. Treating Epilepsy and Preventing Seizures
Doctors have looked into using medical marijuana to treat epilepsy and other seizure disorders. More research needs to be completed, but one recent study looks promising. Like the other conditions that we’ve covered here, CBD won’t cure epilepsy or other seizure conditions, but it has been shown to reduce their symptoms and the frequency of the seizures.
7. Treating Drug and Alcohol Conditions
Ironically, CBD may be useful in treating drug and alcohol addiction in some people. This is mainly due to CBD’s ability to treat stress and anxiety disorders to prevent stress-induced cravings. It’s especially useful for those in recovery and in danger of a relapse.
While there are many benefits of medical marijuana and CBD products, they should only be used as directed. If you think you can benefit from medical marijuana, speak with your doctor to find out if it is right for you and what your options are.
