With all the talk and debate about the legalization of consuming cannabis, the benefits are often a neglected part of the picture. The advantages of the substance include its use as a treatment for chronic pain, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, depression and a host of other conditions, both physical and psychological. There’s still plenty of research to be done, but when it comes to clinical uses of cannabinoids derived from the marijuana plant, the prospects could be quite promising.
The first wave of legalization that took place in the U.S. was based solely on the medical benefits of the substance. As more money becomes available for high level research at universities and government agencies, like the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), small steps are being taken to add cannabis-related pharmaceuticals to the long list of drugs used to treat a wide array of conditions.
Millions of adults choose to obtain a medical marijuana card by applying online. For professionals with limited free time and for anyone who prefers the safety and anonymity of applying electronically, getting their card online is a no brainer. Choose a leading service provider with a solid reputation. Here is a look at some of the key benefits of using medical marijuana. Considering the many health benefits that cannabis has, you might consider growing it yourself. You’ll need some seeds, soil and a good LED grow light.
Pain Relief
Hundreds of ailments cause chronic pain for sufferers. Now, many people are turning to medical doses of marijuana related products for effective relief. Whether the pain is caused by Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis or others, the chemical present in common marijuana plants can help suppress or, in some cases, greatly reduce chronic pain. In fact, this key benefit was what first prompted the argument to remove the plant from the U.S. federal DEA list of dangerous drugs.
Addiction Treatment
Ironically, what was once considered an addictive substance is now at the forefront of the fight against real addiction. Various components of the marijuana plant are now being used to help people who have problems with addiction to opioids and alcohol. There is some controversy in this area of research and the topic has become somewhat of a political chess match, but they hope is that progress will continue to be made.
Treatment for PTSD and Depression
Some with long-term depression that does not respond to other drug treatment can have success with cannabis-derived products. Additionally, the same can be said for sufferers of post-traumatic stress disorder, many of whom have found relief with medical marijuana.
Fighting Side-Effects of Cancer Treatment
No one has suggested that cannabinoids are a cure for cancer, but many are turning to treating the side-effects of various cancer treatments, like chemotherapy, where severe nausea can be a major burden. It often resists standard drug therapy. Newer, cannabis-based drugs seem to alleviate this condition even in patients who have had no luck with other forms of treatment. Likewise, one of the troubling side-effects of multiple sclerosis is muscle spasticity. The use of cannabinoid drugs is now used to treat some cases of this side effect.
