The drug named marijuana is an extract derived from the Cannabis plant, a herbaceous flowering plant formerly indigenous to equatorial climate but now brought to other parts of the globe due to widespread cultivation. The plant’s herbal components have been identified as medicine by cultures throughout history, apart from being a source of industrial fiber, seed oil, and food. Thus, under a physician’s prescription, marijuana and its different strains/varieties are a potent remedy to a variety of health concerns as long as moderation is taken into perspective – pain and inflammation reduction, being one of them.
Marijuana’s medicinal properties come from compounds called cannabinoids. Some of these widely-known cannabinoids, cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) have anti-inflammatory and hallucinogenic effects to the central nervous system. Exposure is also likely to cause stimulation or acts as a depressant as well as other psychological side effects.
Cannabinoids in marijuana are capable of shifting the pathways of pain perception. This reduces the onset of pain felt throughout the body as a result of migraine, muscle spasms, or fibromyalgia (widespread pain). Reports even state it can help replace traditional pain-relieving opioids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) with negative side effects such as ibuprofen.
Based on a 2014 study by the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, marijuana of the indica strain (Cannabis indica) is the preferred strain of the drug for pain management, sedation and inducing sleep. Significant positive results were seen in the treatment of non-migraine headaches, neuropathy (nerve pain), spasticity (rigidity of muscles due to brain or spinal cord injuries), and joint pain. Additionally, smaller studies have stated that people with chronic migraines experienced a decrease in migraine episodes after having used marijuana for pain relief.
Because CBD can reduce inflammation, conditions involving immediate inflammation are sure to experience treatment from it. This includes rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and other notable inflammatory ailments. Testimonies go as far as state its effectiveness in lessening tremors brought about by Parkinson’s Disease – a chronic and progressive movement disorder known to target males.
When using medical marijuana (MMJ) for treating ailments, doctors consider the capacity of a patient’s body to handle the drug. This helps minimize any risks that will arise upon use such as rapid breathing, mild hallucinations, or increased blood pressure and heart rate. Marijuana is then administered in the form of lozenges, capsules, oral or dermal sprays, edibles and other forms of medicine.
Despite the positive effects that marijuana has, it’s not readily welcomed due to its capacity to be a risk to a person’s health. Depending on the laws of your side of the world, there is a need to weigh in the pros and cons of marijuana with your doctor if it ever becomes a necessity. Be informed of any adverse effects it might have on your health – and consider a back-up plan.
All are advised to take precautions when using marijuana for medicine. Marijuana may have effects that can aid us, but it doesn’t hurt to be careful. Always consider professional medical advice, and don’t attempt to use any substance to treat a condition at your own behest.
