Cannabis has a long history of medical, spiritual, and recreational uses that date back at least 5,000 years! It also has deep roots in India, China, Africa, and even the fallen Assyrian empire. Currently, cannabis is often consumed for recreational use, but it also has a valid case for being one of the best preventative medicines around. After all, there is a reason why marijuana was available in dispensaries as medicine before reaching legalization. Most consumers use cannabis for its mind-altering effects that are produced by the cannabinoid THC. Common effects include relaxation, euphoria, increased appetite, and heightened sensory perception. The effects of cannabis use are well known but let us explore the many medical benefits that are often overlooked.
Inflammation Reduction
Studies have shown that marijuana use alleviates pain and reduces inflammation. CBD oil is also widely used by athletes to combat muscle and joint inflammation. Both THC and CBD are effective in reducing inflammation and preventing inflammation that is associated with diseases such as arthritis, and Crohn’s disease.
Assists the Digestive System
Researchers have found that cannabis interacts with the cells in the body that play a crucial role in gut function. Certain cannabinoids increase the functionality of the gut, which in turn promotes blockage of compounds that decrease intestinal permeability. Blocking these gut-destroying compounds is especially helpful in patients with diseases like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Can Help Fight Cancer
Many cancer patients consume cannabis products to help fight pain and nausea caused by chemotherapy. Studies have also found that marijuana also works to slow down tumor growth in the lungs, breasts, and brain. THC, the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, has also been found to have anti-cancer properties.
Prevents Alzheimer’s Disease
Like the positive effects on the digestive system, THC has been found to prevent Alzheimer’s by blocking the deposits in the brain that cause the disease. THC also slows the formation of plaques that are associated with Alzheimer’s that destroy brain cells.
Treats Glaucoma
Glaucoma occurs when the intraocular pressure increases and damages the optic nerve. Left untreated, this causes gradual vision loss and leads to blindness. Cannabis directly affects receptors in the eye to reduce intraocular pressure and prevents the damage that leads to Glaucoma and blindness.
Spanning various continents, and over many years, it is no surprise that cannabis has many practical uses as medicine. Unlike tobacco, cannabis use is great for recreational use but even better as preventative medicine. Thankfully, we live in an age where cannabis is accessible through local dispensaries, same-day weed delivery services, and also through mail-order-marijuana!