Use of medical marijuana
Medical research indicates that medicinal marijuana and smoked cannabis reduce neuropathic pain and improve caloric intake in patients suffering from decreased muscle mass and muscle spasticity commonly seen in severe and irreversible autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS). These medical properties have gradually led to extensive clinical research and the development of a large number of cannabinoid-based drugs and other alternative delivery methods.
Medical Marijuana and Cancer
Cannabis is known to reduce the feeling of extreme nausea and pain that afflicts all chemotherapy patients. Physicians of integrative oncology and health care providers prescribe MMJ to induce healthy sleep and stimulate appetite. MMJ not only helps patients to manage their symptoms but also has beneficial anti-tumor properties.
Medical Marijuana and Arthritis
More than 31 million Americans suffer from rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis that affects the joints, resulting in swelling and pain limiting normal movement. Since the 18th century, cannabis has been used in Western medicine to treat muscle pain due to its immune-modulating, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Research indicates that it is highly effective when used to treat extremely painful conditions including, but not limited to, degenerative joint, hip, and connective tissue conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. It can also be used as an adjunct form of therapy that enhances the effectiveness of opium-based pain relievers and NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs). MMJ reduces joint inflammation and morning stiffness when metabolized by the body into its cannabidiol form.
Medical Marijuana and Multiple Sclerosis
Nearly 350,000 Americans currently suffer from the painful and debilitating medical condition known as Multiple Sclerosis (MS). This neurological condition affects people between the ages of 20 and 40 and is more common in women. The symptomatology of this central nervous system (CNS) disorder varies from case to case. Commonly observed symptoms include increased muscle spasticity resulting in loss of function, pain, spasms, etc. An estimated 4% of the patient population taking MMJ have experienced tremendous relief from their symptoms as cannabis reduces muscle spasticity and tremors. It also has a positive effect by slowing down the autoimmune attack that is the underlying pathogenic process in this painful condition.
