This is not a young topic, so continuing to understand and apply findings on the benefits of cannabis seems culturally responsible. Let’s start with the basics. “Cannabinoids” are the active components of marijuana and are similar to chemicals the body creates that are involved in appetite, memory, movement, and pain.
Increasing long-term research suggests cannabinoids can help:
- Reduce anxiety.
- Reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
- Control nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy.
- Kill cancer cells and slow tumor growth.
- Relax tight muscles in people with MS.
- Stimulate appetite and improve weight gain in people with cancer and HIV.
These are a fraction of the benefits that have surrounded cannabis, spanning from opinion to research.
Is Cannabis Safe to use?
The next obvious question, is it safe? The answer to that question is somewhere within equally mixed information. Not using cannabis while driving, during pregnancy and while using other substances and/or taking other medications is very important. From a more personal standpoint, knowing your limits and being mindful of how cannabis effects you won’t do you any harm. Numerous government funded studies continue to investigate the potential medical properties and mechanisms of use for cannabis, including minor cannabinoids (those other than THC) and terpenes (substances in cannabis that give the plant its strain-specific properties such as aroma and taste). The goal of these studies is to strengthen the evidence regarding cannabis components and whether they have potential medical applications that outweigh the risks.
Is Cannabis recommended for Anxiety and Depression?
Anxiety and depression are two of the most common mental health problems affecting millions around the world. While therapy and psychological treatment can help stop the symptoms, many around the world either do not have access to this medical care or don’t have enough money to afford it.
Traditional antidepressants may effectively treat these disorders in a lot of people but can have unpleasant side effects. The list of unpleasant and medically realized side effects from SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor) and TCAs (Tricyclic Antidepressant) is long, including:
- Agitation
- Indigestion
- Weight Gain
- Weight Loss
- Dizziness
- Lowered Libido
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Constipation
- Indigestion
- Dry Mouth
- Heart Rhythm Problems
- Psychosis
- Diabetes
Cannabis has long been used in rituals and medicinal practices but is now receiving the attention to bring it to its forefront, especially the potential CBD has, not having psychoactive effects from THC. Many individuals around the world are now giving it to their pet cats and dogs.
Conclusion
Continued research still needs to occur for this topic to evolve further, but at the very least, experimenting with medicinal cannabis products, especially products high in CBD, may help to treat symptoms of depression, improve sleep and change your quality of life.
