What Are The Benefits of Medical Marijuana?

Marijuana has been used for thousands of years. Not just for the euphoric high but for medicinal purposes as well.

Despite that, the use of the cannabis plant is prohibited by federal law. Interestingly enough, however, it is legal in many states. 

In fact, many people use it to treat their medical conditions. While it won’t cure them per se, it can help alleviate symptoms.

What are the benefits of medical marijuana? Want to know? If so, you’re on the right page.

Keep reading to learn more about the topic!

What Is Medical Marijuana? 

Medical marijuana refers to the parts of the cannabis plant that can be used for medicinal purposes. What are the main active ingredients? Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).

In the United States, it’s considered to be a Schedule I drug. In other words, it falls into the same category as LSD, heroin, and ecstasy.

Because of this, researchers have to get a special license to study its effects.

What Are the Benefits of Medical Marijuana?

Medical marijuana can help treat various conditions. As for where to get it, there are many dispensaries across the country. For example, you can get it at these stores.

Anyway, here’s what you can use it for.

Chronic Pain 

The cannabinoids in marijuana may be effective at relieving pain. Because of this, it’s often used to treat conditions such as arthritis, migraines, fibromyalgia, and endometriosis.

In fact, it may replace nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which have various side effects.

Neurological Disorders 

Marijuana acts on cannabinoid receptors that are present in the nervous system. Given that, it’s not surprising to know that it can treat neurological disorders.

For example, it may help those with epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, or post-traumatic stress disorder. However, more clinical studies are needed to determine its therapeutic effects.

Cancer

Medical marijuana can help individuals with cancer. For one thing, it can alleviate pain.

In addition to that, it can help relieve symptoms such as nausea or vomiting, both of which are common side effects of radiation and chemotherapy.

In fact, there’s an FDA-approved drug that’s used for this purpose.

Diabetes 

Marijuana can potentially benefit those with diabetes. That is, it’s believed to stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce neuropathic pain.

On top of that, it may offer protection against diabetic retinopathy—the leading cause of vision loss among those with the condition.

Keep in mind, however, that it’s not a replacement for diabetes medication.

Potential Side Effects 

Medical marijuana does come with potential side effects. For instance, an individual may experience dizziness, impaired concentration, and increased heart rate.

In some cases, it can also lead to mild hallucinations. For this reason, want to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery after using marijuana.

Understanding Medical Marijuana 

Now you can answer the question, “what are the benefits of medical marijuana”. If anything, you just have to make sure that it’s legal in your state!

For more cannabis-related posts, check out the rest of our health section!