Medicinal Cannabis the Pros and Cons
Cannabis is still primarily a regulated substance in most countries. In recent years, however, there has been a growing interest in developing the use of cannabis to treat various health problems.The debate about using cannabis as an alternative therapy is far from over. However, the proponents and opponents of medicinal cannabis have valid reasons to support their beliefs. To help you out, here are the pros and cons of medical cannabis.
The Pros Of Medicinal Cannabis
May Treat Anxiety and Depression
Cannabis has relaxing effects that may help people suffering from anxiety, depression, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In addition, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), may reduce nervousness in people.
May Relieve Pain
Cannabis would appear to have favourable effects on reducing muscle spasms and pain. Many multiple sclerosis patients successfully use cannabis for this reason.
Medicinal cannabis can also help reduce dependence on opioid-based prescription painkillers. Opioids are considered more dangerous and addictive than cannabis and its extracts.
It May Aid Sleep
Cannabis compounds possess analgesic properties that may help against insomnia and sleep apnea.
May Help Treat Epilepsy
In 2018, the U.S. FDA approved cannabidiol (CBD) to help aid patients with either Lennox-Gastaut syndrome or Dravet syndrome.
May Slow Down Alzheimer’s Disease
A study has investigated how CBD and THC can slow the progression and help treat Alzheimer’s disease by suppressing the factors that cause Alzheimer’s disease when used together.
May Reduce Inflammation
CBD may help soothe inflammation. Because of this, cannabis may work for people with conditions that cause inflammation in the joints and intestines. These include rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and irritable bowel syndrome.
The Cons Of Medicinal Cannabis
May Cause Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS)
CHS is distinguished by extreme vomiting, often accompanied by stomach pains and nausea. CHS has been observed in prolonged cannabis use.
May Cause Health Problems in Children
Cannabis has been linked to developmental and health complications among infants. For example, an unborn child who has been exposed to cannabis via the mother may experience anaemia, memory deficiency, low birth weight, and attention deficit disorder.
May Worsen Heart-Related Conditions
Cannabis users report experiencing faster heartbeats and increased blood pressure. This can be problematic for older people and those with existing heart conditions. Cannabis has also been linked to a familiar rhythm disorder in the heart called atrial fibrillation.
May Impair Cognition and Motor Skills.
Cannabis may cause hallucinations, resulting in poor motor skills, impaired judgment, and even psychotic episodes. In addition, the risk of getting into a vehicular accident is higher after marijuana use. Cannabis, similarly to alcohol, doesn’t mix well with driving. Nor any other activity that requires concentration and precise muscle movements.
May Damage The Respiratory System
Using cannabis via smoking can harm the lungs and other organs in the respiratory system. Smoking can kill is true for both tobacco and marijuana products. Other ingestion methods such as edibles, vaporizers, and CBD products may be a safer option.
May get you Arrested.
Whilst some regions have legalized marijuana, strict regulation of the substance persists in most countries. Using cannabis can therefore land you in jail, even if it is for medical use. The rule here is to know the law wherever you are
Cannabis is now being studied on a much larger scale. Experts are working out whether the plant and its substances have therapeutic use.
Ultimately, however, the choice to use or not use this substance is on you.
L
Liz Filmer
