Previously, in our Elevation marijuana dispensary blog series, we identified and discussed some common conditions that medical cannabis has been noted to help alleviate. The truth is, that there are far more than just five conditions that this plant can help treat. The cannabis plant is extremely diverse and powerful, composed of thousands of cannabinoids and compounds that scientists haven’t all fully identified yet.
Because of that, research and science around cannabis is always ongoing. Let’s continue to identify more common conditions that cannabis may alleviate.
Arthritis
Including over 100 conditions, arthritis is characterized by joint inflammation, pain, and stiffness, often leading to decreased mobility. The most common types are osteoarthritis (degenerative joint disease) and rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune disorder).
A study published in Rheumatology (2018) found that CBD could help reduce the pain associated with osteoarthritis by lowering inflammation and acting as a pain modulator.
Today, more clinical studies are indicating cannabinoids such as THC and CBD may reduce joint stiffness and improve mobility for patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is an eye condition characterized by increased intraocular pressure (IOP), leading to optic nerve damage. As aging occurs, this chronic eye disease can cause serious pain, often causing the potential for vision loss.
Cannabis has been found to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP), a triggered source of pain for those with glaucoma.
While cannabis can’t act as a healing solution to the cause of glaucoma, it can be a leading source of pain and pressure alleviation. Early studies showed that smoking cannabis reduces IOP in both healthy individuals and those with glaucoma. The effect lasts only as long as the cannabis high, around 3-4 hours.
Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that acts on dopamine-producing neurons in the body. It’s a disease that affects motor symptoms like tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia, — even non-motor symptoms such as sleep disturbances can be a troubling symptom for Parkinson’s.
A 2014 Clinical Neuropharmacology study found that consuming cannabis improved motor symptoms, such as tremors and rigidity, in Parkinson’s patients due to the interaction of THC and CBD on the brain and endocannabinoid system.
Crohn’s Disease & Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habits. It’s a disease that nearly 10-15% of adults will experience in their lifetime. Crohn’s Disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) causing inflammation of the digestive tract – it can lead to abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, or malnutrition.
A 2013 study in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that cannabis significantly reduced symptoms in Crohn’s patients – THC helped to manage chronic pain and aching, while CBD reduced inflammation in the digestive tract.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
This autoimmune disease attacks the immune system and the protective covering of nerves. Multiple Sclerosis leads to communication issues between the brain and the rest of the body – with symptoms including muscle spasticity, pain, fatigue, and mobility problems.
Medical cannabis in the form of topicals, flower, edibles, or tinctures has been noted to alleviate neuropathic pain and muscle stiffness or spasms.
Sativex is an oral spray composed of both THC and CBD cannabinoids. This cannabis-based medication is designed to treat MS-related spasticity, efficiently reducing muscle stiffness and pain. This cannabis medication has been approved for MS patients in several countries, including Canada and parts of Europe.
Accessible Cannabis for All Common Cannabis Conditions
Becoming a mindful and informed cannabis consumer means understanding how cannabis interacts with the body to alleviate various health symptoms. We invite you to join our growing cannabis community at Elevation medical and recreational dispensary through the Higher Elevation Program. As a member, you’ll gain access to exclusive insights, educational resources, and a network of individuals committed to wellness and the benefits of cannabis.
This program is designed to keep you informed about the latest cannabis products, consumption methods, and industry trends, helping you make well-educated choices that will enhance your overall experience.
Take advantage of this opportunity to deepen your knowledge, connect with a supportive community, and enjoy premium cannabis products at a reduced rate. Begin your journey with the Higher Elevation Program and discover a new level of wellness and satisfaction.
Explore our cannabis dispensary menu to learn about product categories, flower strains, and terpene profiles. Stay tuned to our blog page for upcoming articles on everything cannabis!
*The contents of this blog are intended for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.*
