What Makes Cannabis Medicinal?
Medical cannabis consumers know that cannabis use has positive impacts on their health. From reducing dependency on prescription medications to stimulating appetite, reducing muscle spasticity, and alleviating symptoms of anxiety and PTSD, medical cannabis has helped patients regain their quality of life.
What Makes Medical Cannabis Work So Well for So Many Conditions?
Behind the effectiveness of cannabis lies a fascinating biological system known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and a network of endocannabinoid receptors that help regulate pain, mood, appetite, immune function, and more. Cannabis contains cannabinoids, which mimic the body's natural endocannabinoids. These compounds are responsible for the diverse effects of cannabis, including its psychoactive properties and therapeutic benefits. For medical marijuana patients, understanding how the ECS functions and interacts with cannabis can become crucial for optimizing treatment outcomes and maximizing benefits.
The two primary cannabinoids, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), contribute significantly to cannabis’s medical benefits:
THC: The psychoactive compound in cannabis that provides pain relief, reduces nausea, stimulates appetite, and helps with conditions like multiple sclerosis and PTSD.
CBD: A non-psychoactive compound known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and neuroprotective properties, aiding in conditions such as epilepsy, chronic pain, and mental health disorders.
Besides THC and CBD, more than 100 other cannabinoids have been identified. The Role of Terpenes and Flavonoids in Medical Cannabis
Beyond cannabinoids, cannabis contains terpenes and flavonoids that contribute to its therapeutic effects:
Terpenes: These aromatic compounds not only give cannabis its distinct scent and flavor but also provide medicinal benefits. Some key terpenes include:
- Myrcene: Known for its sedative and muscle-relaxing properties, making it beneficial for pain relief and insomnia.
- Limonene: Offers mood-enhancing and anti-anxiety effects, commonly found in citrus-scented strains.
- Pinene: Acts as an anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator, helping with respiratory conditions and cognitive function.
- Linalool: Has calming and anti-anxiety effects, often used for stress relief and sleep disorders.
- Caryophyllene: A unique terpene that interacts with cannabinoid receptors, offering anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Flavonoids: These compounds contribute to cannabis’s color and health benefits, possessing anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties. Some flavonoids found in cannabis include:
- Quercetin: A potent antioxidant with antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects. o Apigenin: Known for its anti-anxiety and mild sedative effects.
- Cannflavins: Unique to cannabis, these flavonoids exhibit strong anti inflammatory properties, potentially more potent than aspirin.
Conditions That May Benefit from Medical Cannabis
Medical cannabis has been studied for its potential to alleviate symptoms of various chronic conditions, including:
Chronic Pain: Conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and neuropathy often lead to persistent pain that can be managed with cannabis-based treatments.
Neurological Disorders: Research supports the use of cannabis for epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease due to its ability to reduce muscle spasms and seizures.
Mental Health Conditions: Patients with PTSD, anxiety, and depression have reported symptom relief with medical cannabis, particularly CBD-dominant products.
Cancer Treatment Support: Cannabis helps with chemotherapy-induced nausea, loss of appetite, and pain, improving the quality of life for cancer patients.
Gastrointestinal Disorders: Conditions like Crohn’s disease and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may benefit from cannabis due to its anti-inflammatory effects on the gut.
Methods of Consumption
Patients have multiple options for consuming medical cannabis, each with different onset times and effects:
Inhalation (Smoking/Vaporizing): Provides rapid relief, making it suitable for acute pain or nausea.
Edibles: Offer longer-lasting effects but take longer to kick in due to digestion.
Tinctures and Oils: Allow for precise dosing and sublingual absorption.
Topicals: Used for localized pain relief and skin conditions.
Capsules: Provide a controlled dosage for consistent effects.
Juicing: Juicing raw cannabis may offer the following benefits:
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- Anti-cancer effects
- Tackling nausea and vomiting
- Neuroprotection
- Anti-fungal effects
Cannabinoid and fatty acids can help improve cell function, reduce damage caused by free radicals, and even increase communication between cells
Finding the Right Treatment
For individuals considering medical cannabis, working with a knowledgeable healthcare provider like the doctors at Alternative Wellness is essential. Proper dosing, strain selection, and monitoring can optimize benefits while minimizing side effects. Consulting with dispensary professionals or the cannabis clinicians at Alternative Wellness can provide additional guidance tailored to individual needs.
Legal Considerations and Access
The legal status of medical cannabis varies by region, with some states and countries allowing its use under specific medical programs. Patients should consult their healthcare providers and local laws to ensure compliance and safe access.
Conclusion
Medical cannabis offers a natural and effective option for patients seeking relief from chronic and debilitating conditions. As research continues to uncover its therapeutic potential, more individuals can explore this alternative treatment with informed decision-making and professional support. Always consult a medical professional before starting cannabis therapy to ensure it aligns with your health needs.