The Various Health Benefits of Cannabis

Updated on August 15, 2022

The health benefits of cannabis have been widely debated, with some arguing that the plant is an important medicine. Others contend that it is not much different than harmful illicit drugs. Many patients and physicians now agree that this misunderstood plant may be a useful remedy for various ills, including joint pain and cancer. Thousands of people every day are using medical marijuana to treat everything from chronic pain to glaucoma. Discussed below are the health benefits of cannabis.

1. Lowers Blood Pressure

One of the health benefits of cannabis is that it can lower blood pressure in people suffering from hypertension. Cannabis affects CB-2 receptors, which are found throughout the body. These receptors are also found in blood vessels and other parts of the vascular system. The existence of these receptors is one reason why cannabis has shown promise as a treatment for atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries.

2. Reduces Inflammation and Pain

The main component of marijuana that provides pain relief is called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Marijuana is also thought to reduce inflammation, sometimes caused by chronic pain. Although conventional medications can help relieve inflammation and pain, they may have harmful side effects. As a result, many patients are turning to cannabis for relief.

3. Helps Control Epileptic Seizures

Many of the health benefits of cannabis are related to its ability to suppress spasms, which may help to prevent seizures. Marijuana can slow down nerves in the brain that are responsible for convulsions and contractions. In this way, it acts as an effective treatment for epilepsy and other similar conditions.

4. May Help Fight Cancer

One of the most promising cancer treatments is cannabis oil. This oil is made by extracting the THC compound from marijuana and mixing it with olive oil. Marijuana has been used to fight cancer and tumors, including lymphoma, glioma, and breast cancer. It has also been shown to slow down the growth of leukemia cells.

5. Has Antibacterial Properties

Marijuana has been shown to fight infections and other potentially harmful bacteria. The plant is believed to prevent boils and inflammations in people suffering from acne. Cannabis is also effective against MRSA, a dangerous antibiotic-resistant strain of bacteria that can cause staph infections.

7. Treats Anxiety Disorders

Cannabis can be useful in the treatment of anxiousness and depression. It is used to help patients with post-traumatic stress disorder, characterized by an overwhelming fear of being attacked. Marijuana works better than conventional drugs for people suffering from high anxiety and severe depression. When combined with other natural remedies and lifestyle changes, cannabis can help patients who suffer from anxiety disorders.

8. Protects the Brain

One of the interesting health benefits of cannabis is that it may protect the brain from strokes and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. The main component in marijuana that may provide this benefit is cannabidiol (CBD). This compound has been shown to provide powerful neuroprotection against brain injuries and reduce damage to the brain cells caused by stroke.

9. Treats Gastrointestinal Disorders

Many of the health benefits of cannabis involve the gastrointestinal system. Research suggests that CBD can effectively treat Crohn’s disease, a painful and potentially deadly digestive disorder. CBD also has anti-inflammatory properties and may be useful against irritable bowel syndrome or IBS.

10. Prevents Relapse in Drug Addiction

Cannabis is sometimes used to help patients addicted to drugs like opiates. It helps to prevent addiction by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It also may provide an alternative source of drugs, which may help patients avoid relapse.

11. Treats Multiple Sclerosis

Patients suffering from multiple sclerosis may find relief with cannabis. The symptoms of MS are similar to those of glaucoma, including blurred vision and eye pain. Cannabis may reduce the pain and pressure associated with these conditions.

12. Prevents Kidney Damage

Many of the health benefits of cannabis include its ability to prevent kidney damage. The plant contains life-protecting antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress and inflammation throughout the body. It also may reduce oxidative damage by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Conclusion

There are many health benefits of cannabis, which is why it is so widely used. Millions of people worldwide use marijuana to treat chronic pain and other debilitating health problems. Marijuana also has shown promise in treating cancer, multiple sclerosis, and gastrointestinal disorders. The potential for this plant to fight disease and improve quality of life cannot be ignored. It may offer hope to millions of patients with serious or terminal illnesses.

The Editorial Team at Healthcare Business Today is made up of skilled healthcare writers and experts, led by our managing editor, Daniel Casciato, who has over 25 years of experience in healthcare writing. Since 1998, we have produced compelling and informative content for numerous publications, establishing ourselves as a trusted resource for health and wellness information. We offer readers access to fresh health, medicine, science, and technology developments and the latest in patient news, emphasizing how these developments affect our lives.