The true capabilities of cannabis continue to be discovered
Cannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are already known to be able to relieve pain, arthritis, inflammation and other health issues. These are the most common targets of marijuana consumption, but science is showing that there is a lot more to cannabis than just pain relief. There are a number of other benefits to consumption, and some may be surprising.
In a 2012 study, marijuana was shown to help alleviate lung cancer and could also increase lung functions among tobacco smokers. The study was conducted with 5,100 participants and scientists followed all of them for 20 years to reach their conclusions.
CBD has also been shown to stop the growth of certain types of cancer. It can “turn off” a gene in the body, Id-1, that is linked to cancer and has also been positively identified as a retardant for tumor growth in the brain, breasts and lungs.
Marijuana is also being identified as a treatment for glaucoma. It can reduce the pressure inside the eye, helping to reduce damage to the optic nerve and the possibility of a loss of vision.
Since 2006, there has been strong evidence that THC can slow down Alzheimer’s progression. The cannabinoid blocks and delays the production of amyloid plaques and these have been linked to the death of brain cells, which causes the disease.
Cannabis might also help patients recover from strokes. It has been shown to reduce the size of the brain area that was affected by the stroke, leading to a fuller recovery.
There is growing evidence that cannabis can help reverse brain injuries. Several studies are still being conducted, but the idea already has scientific support.
There is still a lot to learn about cannabis and its effects, but science has already irrefutably proven that it has a viable place in medicine. Those who oppose its legalization have no grounds for their stance, other than misguided beliefs based on a lack of understanding of how the plant actually works.
