You can find cannabis in many forms, but did you know that cannabis is for much more than getting ‘high’? There are numerous health benefits to cannabis because it contains CBD that affects the brain without having high levels of THC that produce the ‘high’ experience.
If you decide to try cannabis, you could enjoy the following health benefits:
Relieve Chronic Pain
Did you know there are hundreds of potent chemical compounds in cannabis? Many of them are cannabinoids, which are known to relieve chronic pain. That is why medical cannabis is often used for pain relief in terminal cancer or severe arthritis.
Boosts Lung Capacity
It might surprise you, but smoking cannabis may not be as harmful to the lungs as believed. Some studies suggest that inhaling cannabis smoke may boost lung capacity. If you are unsure about smoking cannabis, you can always consume cannabis in edible products or pills.
Aid Weight Loss
Ever notice that many cannabis users are not obese? This is because cannabis can regulate your insulin while limiting your caloric intake.
Help With Diabetes
Consuming cannabis affects insulin, so it only seems logical that it can regulate and possibly prevent diabetes. Research performed by the American Alliance for Medical Cannabis reports that cannabis may stabilize blood sugar, reduce hypertension, and boost blood circulation.
Fight Depression
Depression is quite common, and many people do not know they have it. Experts contend that the endocannabinoid compounds found in cannabis can stabilize your mood, which can relieve depression.
Reduce ADHD and ADD
People with ADHD and ADD have difficulty staying focused on tasks. They may have issues with concentration and cognitive performance. Cannabis shows promise in some studies by improving focus and helping people struggling with ADHD and ADD. It also is thought to be safer than Ritalin and Adderall.
Reduce Anxiety
Some think consuming cannabis causes anxiety. But there are ways to ensure that does not happen. If cannabis is consumed in a closely monitored dose and in the right way, it can reduce anxiety and provide a sense of calm and peace.
Fight PTSD
PTSD is not just a problem for military veterans. It can affect anyone who experiences severe trauma, such as a car accident or witnessing a suicide. Cannabis may help to manage the fight or flight response that is common with people living with PTSD. Some people who have PTSD report having a feeling of peace and calm after using cannabis.
Lowers Side Effects to Hepatitis C
The regular treatment for hepatitis C has several serious side effects, such as fatigue, nausea, depression, and severe muscle aches. These can go on for months for some with the disease. Cannabis may help to lower the side effects of the treatment and make it more effective.
Treats Inflammatory Bowel Disease
People who have ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease may find relief by smoking cannabis. THC and cannabidiol have been shown to boost the body’s immune response while affecting cells that play a major role in regulating the gut. Cannabis use may block the growth of bacteria that can lead to intestinal inflammation.
Reduce Parkinsons’ Tremors
People who have tremors associated with Parkinson’s disease may find smoking cannabis can reduce their number of tremors and eliminate pain. Some patients also report being able to sleep better and have enhanced motor skills.
The Bottom Line
As you can see, there are many possible health benefits to consuming cannabis, and more are being discovered all the time.
