What are the medical benefits of cannabis?

What is Cannabis?

Cannabis can be found in many forms, its most common variations differ mostly chemically. First of all, there is Marijuana, which contains both THC and CBD. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a chemical that has psychoactive effects or to use more common terminology, it gets you high. That is why it is illegal in most countries in the world. However medical marijuana is starting to be legal in a lot of states. On the other hand, Hemp is legal all over Europe, the US and most of the other countries in the world.

Hemp and marijuana are, technically speaking, the same plant. They are different names for the same genus (Cannabis) and species. Their looks and smell are similar as well. However, the big difference is in their chemical composition. Both contain a high CBD content, although they vary in THC. According to laws in each country, THC content in Hemp may be different. For example in the US, Cannabis with THC below 0.3% is considered Hemp. In Europe, THC needs to be less than 0.2% and in Italy, it is considered Legal Cannabis light if its THC content is below 0.6%. However, there are no limits in CBD percentages to be considered hemp.

Hemp has over twenty thousand different uses. It is believed to be one of the first crops to ever be planted by mankind. Another peculiarity of the cannabis plant is that each part of the plant can be used, from the stems to the flowers. For example

What are its Medical uses and benefits?

Cannabis has been used medically from the beginning of the 21st century. Its chemical components, CBD and THC have been studied to have many benefits to patients with serious pathologies.

Let’s start with two common benefits of THC:

  • Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) slows the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. This chemical compound slows the formation of amyloid plaques by blocking the enzyme in the brain that makes them. These plaques kill the brain cells and potentially lead to Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Marijuana can be used to treat glaucoma, which increases the pressure in the eyeball, injuring the optic nerve and causing loss of vision. Therefore THC lowers the pressure inside the eye.

On the other hand, Cannabidiol (CBD) is also used medically for other purposes. Let’s see together some of them:

  • Cannabidiol is rich in Omega 3,6,9 and other essential fatty acids. These nutrients have been found very helpful for those who suffer from insomnia, and anxiety. In addition, it is used medically for those who suffer from arthritis and strong physical pain.
  • Last but not least, CBD is very helpful in the treatment of cancer. It has been studied to help slow cancer from spreading. In particular when it affects the brain, lungs or breasts.