Is marijuana the miracle drug we've all been searching for?
The truth is we still don't know, but there's a lot of research going into its healing powers.
And the results?
Well, they are fascinating, exciting and show a lot of potential.
Over the last decade, more and more studies have come out showing Cannabodioil's (a phytocannabinoid found in cannabis) potential for alleviating chronic pain, life-threatening diseases and improving ones overall quality of life.
Here are three incredible medical benefits of marijuana backed up by science.
Medical Benefits of Marijuana
Marijuana Helps Fight Cancer (But It's Not a Cure)
Marijuana isn't a cure for cancer - yet.
But it's doing a damn good job at getting us closer to one.
Over the last couple of years, scientists have found that the active components of marijuana do incredible things for cancer patients.
Such as:
Shrinking the blood vessels that supply tumours.
Working in tandem with chemotherapy to protect healthy cells and stop cancer growth.
Stimulating an appetite and helping patients overcome nutritional issues caused by radiation and chemotherapy.
Okay, so I know what you're thinking.
"WHERE'S THE EVIDENCE TO BACK THIS UP?!"
There is tons of research, my friend.
The American Association of Cancer Research backs up the claim that marijuana slows down tumour growth.
A 2014 study showed marijuana slowing down the growth of a type of brain tumour associated with malignant brain cancer.
In the CNN documentary, WEED, it mentioned studies in the U.S., Spain and Israel which suggested cannabis compounds could kill cancer cells.
In a study published by Molecular Cancer Therapeutics, it found that Cannabidiol has the ability to turn off the gene Id-1.
What's an Id-1 gene got to do with cancer? Well, the cancer cells make copies of it and use it spread the disease throughout the body.
Marijuana puts a stop to those shenanigans and shuts down the house party cancer is having in your body.
Cannabis Reduces Seizures in Dravet's Syndrome Patients
There are tons of videos online showing children and adults suffering from Dravet's Syndrome thriving after using cannabis to treat their seizures.
The Cannabidiol (CBD) in weed basically tells the brain cells to chill out with the excessive activities that cause seizures.
One five years old girl, Charlotte Figi, went from having 300 seizures a week to one every seven days. Other studies have shown seizures going down as much as 50% when patients use Cannabidiol.
Weed Can Help Prevent Alzheimer's
The idea of Alzeheimer's is terrifying.
The disorder causes brain cells to degenerate and die, causing the person to forget their friends, family, and how to do basic tasks.
Luckily, there is new research pointing to marijuana as a potential cure.
In a 2006 study by the Scripps Research Institute, Kim Janda (the lead researcher) discovered that THC slows the formation of amyloid plaques.
These plaques are what kill brain cells and can lead to Alzheimer's disease.
More Research on the Benefits of Cannabis is Needed
All these studies into the various medical uses of cannabis are fascinating. It's exciting to see how the properties of one plant can help so many people around the world.
But, it's important to remember that research into marijuana's medical properties is still in its infancy.
If you're interested in using weed to improve your health, always reach out to a doctor first. Your physician can guide you through any potential risks as well as how to obtain things like a medical marijuana card legally.