Growing up in Lagos, adults constantly drilled me about how negative ‘Igbo’ (weed) is to the body. Something that would lead you into madness and losing control of your humanity. Now, I’m much older and I know they were just bullshitting me.
Marijuana has left a negative light over the last few years, countless medical studies have uncovered the potential medical benefits of marijuana, which help medical conditions such as; nausea caused by chemotherapy, and wasting caused by AIDS. Since then, a number of studies have been done to unlock more secrets and how it can be better used.
We read through a few of the benefits and made a list of medical benefits of marijuana you probably never knew!
Help If you’re suffering from a panic/anxiety attack
Marijuana has been medically approved to treat PTSD. Naturally occurring cannabinoids, similar to THC, help control the system that causes fear and anxiety in the body and brain.
In 2010, researchers at Harvard University suggested that another of the drug’s benefits may actually be reduced anxiety, which would improve the smoker’s mood and act as a sedative in low doses.
NB: Higher doses may increase anxiety and make you paranoid.
It helps reverse the carcinogen effects of tobacco, and improve lung health for cigarette smokers
In January 2012, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association showed that marijuana improved lung functions, and even increased lung capacity. Researchers found out that only pot users showed an increase in lung capacity, compared to the tobacco smokers who lost lung function over time. It is believed that the increased lung capacity is due to the deep breaths taken while inhaling.
It can be used as a pain reliever, and has helped with nausea from chemotherapy, and stimulates appetite
One of the most common uses of medical marijuana is for cancer patients going through chemotherapy, Marijuana can help reduce these side effects, reducing pain, decreasing nausea, and stirring up the appetite.
There are hundreds of chemical compounds in cannabis, many of which are cannabinoids. Cannabinoids have been linked to providing relief of chronic pain due to their chemical makeup. Which is why cannabis’ by-product such as medical cannabis is commonly used for chronic pain relief.
Mend Bones
Cannabidiol has been linked to helping heal broken bones, quickening the process, it also helps strengthen the bone in the process of healing. This makes it tougher for the bone to break in the future.
Helps with ADHD/ADD
Individuals with ADHD/ADD have trouble focusing on tasks at hand. They tend to have problems with cognitive performance and concentration. Cannabis has shown promise in promoting focus and helping individuals with ADHD/ADD. It is also considered a safer alternative to Adderall and Ritalin.
Regulate and prevent diabetes
Cannabis can help regulate and prevent diabetes due to its impact on insulin. Research conducted by the American Alliance for Medical Cannabis (AAMC) has linked cannabis to stabilise blood sugars, lower blood pressure, and improve blood circulation.
Sleep management
The relaxing effects of marijuana may help improve sleep disorders, such as insomnia, improved sleep may also occur when pain is reduced from marijuana usage.
Helps treat depression
Depression is fairly widespread without most people even knowing they have it. The endocannabinoid compounds in cannabis can help in stabilizing moods which can ease depression.
