
Benefits of Cannabis
By the end of 2022, there were an estimated 52 million Americans who have consumed cannabis. Whether you’re consuming medical or recreational cannabis, there are plenty of therapeutic and alleviating effects that contribute to its overall benefits.
Read on to learn just what these major benefits of cannabis are for various bodily conditions, plus how to stay aware and conscious of any possible dangers.
Exploring the Benefits of Cannabis
Firstly, just like there are many unique compounds and cannabinoids that make up the plant, there are many therapeutic responses and benefits of cannabis that your body experiences when consumed!
Many of these benefits have been proven through scientific studies and trials, and have now become common intentions/reasons behind consumption.
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Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is a common condition experienced by 25% of adults in the United States. Thankfully, cannabis has rapidly become one of the common ways to alleviate it.
Of the hundreds of cannabinoids consisting in cannabis, many of these cannabinoids bind with CB1 and CB2 receptors in our endocannabinoid system to block signals of pain throughout the body.
More specifically, cannabis clinical trials have determined that the cannabinoid THC provides chronic pain relief as effective as opioids or other common painkillers.
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Epilepsy
Recent studies have shown how CBD has been shown to reduce epileptic symptoms and seizure frequency. Although not a psychoactive, CBD is a cannabinoid known to help block or redirect these seizure signals in the brain.
As of 2018, Epidiolex has become the first CBD-based medication to be effective in treating two rare and severe types of epilepsy – Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome.
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Cancer
Since the early stages of medical marijuana legalization in 1996, many have studied the therapeutic effects and benefits of cannabis for cancer symptoms. Oral consumption of cannabis and cannabinoids has shown to be effective against nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy.
Furthermore, studies on cancer cells are suggesting that cannabinoids may play a significant role in slowing down the growth of certain types of cancerous cells. However, additional research is needed in order to determine the efficacy linked between cannabis and cancer in humans.
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Depression, PTSD, & Anxiety
As legalization continues across the country, there has been an open discussion regarding cannabis helping treat symptoms of mental illness. Clinical Psychology Review acutely assessed any benefits of cannabis for various mental health disorders:
Considering the way cannabinoids bind to our endocannabinoid receptors when ingested, these cannabis compounds can help stabilize moods and send regulated signals to the brain.
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- Many studies have shown cannabis to help treat depression and PTSD (traumatic disorders that are often triggered by brain responses).
- To date, there are many polarizing studies that will attest cannabis increases or decreases feelings of anxiety.
The truth of the matter is: while non-psychoactive cannabinoids such as CBD can help alleviate anxious feelings – consuming large amounts of the psychoactive cannabinoid THC may boost anxiety.
However, while cannabis has been discussed to help these common mental health disorders, there is caution around cannabis not being the proper treatment for some other mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder or psychosis.
Benefitting from Cannabis Consumption: What to Remember
Furthermore, like all controlled substances, cannabis should be used carefully and in moderation. Being aware of any possible dangers is also crucial.
Consuming cannabis may lead to an increased heart rate, breathing problems, temporary paranoia, or even intense nausea and vomiting – especially when consumed in large quantities.
Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (also known as CHS) is a condition that can develop with long-term cannabis consumption, often causing users nausea or dehydration when consuming high THC levels.
IndiGrow: Supporting the Benefits of Cannabis Through Our Craft Cannabis!
Finally, at IndiGrow, we are constantly amazed to learn about all the new and innovative research and information surrounding the benefits of cannabis.
At our indoor craft cannabis cultivation in Muskegon, we’re dedicated to growing small-batch, quality-focused cannabis flower that’s selectively bred with strong therapeutic genetics. Our landrace strains are proudly grown to provide a full-spectrum cannabis experience.
Learn more about the latest in cannabis science & industry news on our Blog page! Follow us on Instagram to get an insider’s look at our cannabis microbusiness!
*Always consult a physician before making any changes to your health or fitness regimen.