7 Health Benefits of Cannabis That Everyone Should Know

Cannabis has become a topic of conversation for both its potential medicinal benefits and recreational purposes. Yet, the health benefits of cannabis are often discussed less frequently than the controversies surrounding it.

While there are ongoing debates about marijuana’s safety and legality, research has shed light on many promising medical applications. From pain relief to defending against cancer cells, here we will explore some remarkable health benefits that help to demonstrate why so many cultures have taken advantage of cannabis since ancient times.

1. Stress Relief

Stress is one of the biggest problems for people worldwide, and cannabis has been proven to be an effective treatment for reducing stress levels. The compounds in marijuana act on receptors in the brain to reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) levels. When taken in moderation, cannabis can help improve general mood and focus while reducing anxiety. Medical marijuana has even been prescribed for people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to help reduce their symptoms. The relaxation and calming effects of cannabis can help to reduce feelings of fear, paranoia, and stress associated with PTSD.

If you are taking cannabis for stress relief, it is essential to remember that different cannabis strains can affect you differently. Different varieties of marijuana contain different levels of active compounds, so it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional or dispensary budtender before making your selection. We also recommend starting with low doses and slowly increasing them until you find the amount that works best for you.

2. Pain Relief

One of the most popular uses for medical marijuana is pain relief. Cannabis has been used to treat chronic pain from arthritis, multiple sclerosis, migraines, and fibromyalgia. The active compounds in cannabis, such as THC and CBD, interact with receptors in the brain and body to reduce inflammation and inhibit the transmission of pain signals.

Sometimes, it can be more effective than traditional medications like opioids. Research has shown that cannabis can provide similar levels of relief with fewer side effects than opioid medications. Cancer pain and nausea are two other conditions that cannabis can be used to treat effectively. Studies have shown that the active compounds in marijuana can reduce nausea and vomiting while relieving the pain associated with cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Make sure you buy from a reputable source and look for products with higher CBD-to-THC ratios, as CBD is non-intoxicating, making it a better choice for pain relief. Research a Cannabis store near me, to determine the best one to purchase from. Also, talk to your doctor about dosing and what strain might be best for you.

3. Cancer Prevention

In 2020 alone, cancer killed approximately 10 million people worldwide. Cannabis may be able to play a role in the prevention of certain types of cancer. Compounds like THC and CBD have been found to inhibit the growth and spread of tumor cells in laboratory studies.

The anti-inflammatory properties of cannabis can also help protect against certain types of cancer, such as colorectal, skin, and prostate cancer. Furthermore, research has shown that cannabis can reduce the side effects of chemotherapy and improve the overall quality of life for cancer patients.

Additionally, cannabis may be beneficial for people at risk of developing cancer. Regular marijuana use has been linked to lower rates of certain types of cancer, such as lung, head, and neck cancer.

It also slows down the progression of tumors, making it a promising treatment for patients with cancer. More research is needed to fully understand the protective effects of cannabis against cancer.

4. Improved Heart Health

Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. It’s estimated that about 610,000 people die of heart disease each year in America. Cannabis and cannabis compounds may help reduce the risk of heart disease. THC and CBD can help reduce inflammation in the arteries, which helps to prevent plaque buildup and improve overall cardiovascular health.

Regular cannabis use has been linked to lower blood pressure levels and increased “good” HDL cholesterol. This means that cannabis may help reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack. The anti-anxiety effects of cannabis can also help reduce stress levels, which can improve overall heart health. While more research is needed to fully understand the benefits of cannabis for heart health, it appears to be a promising potential treatment.

5. Reduced Muscle Tension

Whether you are a fitness junkie or spend hours sitting by your office desk, your muscles can become tight and uncomfortable. Cannabis may help with muscle tension and spasms due to its anti-inflammatory effects. The active compounds in cannabis, such as THC and CBD, interact with receptors in the body to reduce inflammation. This can help relax tense muscles and provide relief from the pain associated with muscle spasms.

Additionally, cannabis possesses analgesic and soothing properties, which can help reduce overall muscle tension. Research has also shown that cannabis can help improve sleep, which is vital for muscle recovery. Cannabis may provide relief from muscle tension naturally and effectively. It is a promising treatment for those suffering from muscle pain and stiffness.

6. Body Weight Management

Over 73% of the American population is obese or overweight, making it an epidemic in the country. While many want to shed some weight and restore healthy levels, weight loss is often not as easy. Cannabis may be able to provide some help in this regard. Cannabis users tend to have lower Body Mass Index (BMI) and smaller waist circumferences than non-users. They also tend to consume fewer calories and possess higher levels of HDL or “good” cholesterol.

Both THC and CBD have been found to decrease food intake, which can help with weight management. Cannabis also helps to reduce stress levels, which has been linked to increased food consumption and obesity. For low body weight, cannabis can help improve appetite and increase caloric intake. While more research is needed to completely understand the effects of cannabis on body weight, these benefits are certainly promising.

7. Improved Digestion

For those who suffer from digestive issues, cannabis may be an effective treatment option. Cannabis has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for digestive problems such as nausea, vomiting, and even appetite loss.

Today, research suggests that cannabis can benefit digestive health in multiple ways. First, it is known to possess antiemetic properties, which help reduce nausea and vomiting. Cannabis also helps to increase saliva production, which helps with digestion.

Cannabis also contains antioxidants that protect the gut from inflammation, and its analgesic properties can help reduce stomach pain. Finally, the cannabinoids found in cannabis have been found to improve gut motility, which helps food move through the digestive tract more efficiently.

Cannabis is a powerful plant that possesses numerous health benefits. From reducing anxiety and inflammation to improving digestion and body weight management, the potential of cannabis for overall health is remarkable. However, it’s important to remember that more research is needed before any definitive conclusions can be made about the effectiveness of cannabis as a treatment option. If you are considering using cannabis for health reasons, it’s important to speak with a doctor about its potential benefits and risks.