If you’re like most people, you’ve heard the word “marijuana” and immediately thought of a stoner with his head in a bong. But did you also know that marijuana can actually be used to treat many diseases? Here are some health benefits of marijuana that might surprise you:
Aids in the treatment of many diseases
The medicinal use of marijuana has been a topic of debate for many years, but studies have shown that it can be helpful in treating a wide range of conditions.
In recent years, public attitudes about marijuana have shifted dramatically. A majority (59%) believe that the use of marijuana should be legalized and regulated like alcohol or tobacco; this is nearly double what it was just over 10 years ago (30% in 2005). This shift may help lead to greater acceptance within the medical community as well, which could open up more options for those looking to treat their symptoms naturally without having to fill their medicine cabinets with potentially harmful pharmaceuticals.
Marijuana can be used to treat cancer, epilepsy, and glaucoma as well as other diseases such as migraines and chronic pain. It’s also been known to help with anxiety disorders like PTSD [post-traumatic stress disorder], depression, and bipolar disorders while reducing inflammation throughout the body.”
Decreases anxiety
Marijuana can help people with anxiety disorders.
The study of marijuana’s effects on the brain is still in its infancy, but there are several ways that marijuana can be helpful for those who suffer from anxiety.
It helps people with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) reduce symptoms related to stress and worry, including insomnia and disturbing thoughts. Marijuana may also work well for those who struggle with a social anxiety disorder or panic attacks. For people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), using marijuana may help them cope better with their painful memories by helping them relax and feel more present in the moment instead of being caught up in their past traumas. The drug has also been shown to improve moods and relieve depression symptoms which could help prevent future episodes of depression if used regularly enough bipolar patients have reported improved sleep quality after trying it out as well as lower rates of suicidal ideation since beginning treatment programs involving medical cannabis. Finally, some research suggests that cannabinoids like THC might reduce psychotic symptoms in schizophrenia patients while simultaneously reducing cognitive deficits associated with this condition; however, these findings remain controversial among experts due to a lack of evidence supporting these claims
Lowers blood sugar in diabetics
Another surprising health benefit is that marijuana can lower blood sugar in diabetics.
In fact, it’s not just a good alternative to insulin; it can actually help diabetics control their blood sugar and lose weight through the process. This is thanks to cannabidiol (CBD), one of the most common cannabinoids found in cannabis. CBD activates receptors in your endocannabinoid system that are responsible for maintaining homeostasis (a balance between different bodily systems). In this case, CBD stimulates receptors that tell your body to release insulin into the bloodstream after eating food, this keeps your blood sugar levels from getting too high or low.
Because of its ability to reduce inflammation and promote overall wellness, CBD has also been shown to improve cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease by decreasing bad cholesterol levels while increasing good cholesterol levels.
Helps people quit smoking
While you may already know that cannabis has been shown to help people quit smoking tobacco, it’s important to remember that this is just one of the many ways in which marijuana can be used to improve health. A recent study found that 25 percent of people who use medical cannabis were able to completely stop using tobacco, while another 45 percent were able to cut back significantly on their use. This means that up to 70 percent of medical marijuana patients have been able to reduce their risk for lung cancer and other smoking-related diseases by switching over from tobacco products!
While it’s easy enough for someone who isn’t addicted or dependent on nicotine (the substance in cigarettes) will find quitting relatively easy, those who are struggling with severe nicotine withdrawal symptoms may need a little extra help getting through it. Fortunately, research shows that cannabis can be an effective tool in helping ease these symptoms as well! In fact, one study found evidence suggesting that smoking marijuana during withdrawal periods may actually increase chances of success because users report feeling less anxious about their situation when under the influence (meaning they’re more likely than ever before).
Lessens side effects of hepatitis C medication
You know your friend who smokes weed and thinks it’s funny? He might be onto something. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that THC helped reduce nausea in patients with hepatitis C, a severe liver-failing condition. The cannabinoids in marijuana also help reduce pain and anxiety, both common side effects of the medication prescribed by doctors to treat hepatitis C.
Another study published in Psychopharmacology found that cannabidiol (CBD), one of the other active ingredients in marijuana, can help increase sleep quality without any side effects or withdrawal symptoms associated with prescription sleeping pills like Ambien.
Slows spread of HIV in the brain
- The brain is the primary target for HIV, and it can spread from the bloodstream through the blood-brain barrier.
- Marijuana has been shown to protect against this spread in several studies, slowing down the virus’s ability to infect brain cells.
Marijuana is not only safe, but it also has several benefits for our health
Marijuana has been used for many thousands of years. In fact, it has been used as a medicinal herb in many cultures. The plant contains at least 113 different compounds called cannabinoids that are responsible for its wide range of benefits to our health and well-being.
Marijuana can be used to treat various symptoms and side effects related to diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, Multiple Sclerosis (MS), glaucoma, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Final Thoughts
The top health benefits of marijuana are numerous, and it can help treat more ailments than you ever thought. However, before you hop on the marijuana bandwagon, be aware that there are some drawbacks to smoking pot. Be smart about your use and make sure to do plenty of research beforehand.