While cannabis research is still in the early stages, it has shown promise in treating and managing the symptoms of a wide variety of ailments. Below, is a list of ailments cannabis can potentially help.
The ECS is found in all mammals and is responsible for eat, sleep, relax, forget, and protect responses. The ECS is comprised of two receptors, cannabinoid 1 (CB1) and Cannabinoid 2 (CB2).
Endocannabinoids that interact with these receptors, regulating our bodies homeostasis, these endocannabinoids are called anandamide and 2-AG. The last component of the ECS are the enzymes our bodies produce to break down these compounds.
There are over 113 cannabinoids with more being discovered. The most commonly discussed in the medical cannabis industry are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). These cannabinoids bind with the CB1 and CB2 receptors throughout the body, by “taking the place” of the endocannabinoids found within the body.
Binds with the CB1 receptors in our endocannabinoid system, and can potentially provide great pain management and reduction. THC is also the cannabinoid responsible for the intoxicating effects of cannabis.
Binds with the CB2 receptors in our endocannabinoid system and can provide huge anti-inflammatory effects and potential benefits. CBD is the non-intoxicating cannabinoid in cannabis, which means, unlike its partner THC it does not get you high.
The chemicals responsible for the smell and taste of all plants. Terpenes lend certain traits and characteristics to different strains of cannabis, creating unique and specific medical benefits, as well as flavors and smells. Below we’ve listed six common terpenes that are found in cannabis.
Pinene is a potent bronchodilator and could be helpful in the treatment of respiratory issues such as asthma.
Anti-inflammatory
Bronchodilator
Energizing
Myrcene is able to augment THC effectiveness, and is also a helpful sleep aid.
Sedative
Muscle Relaxant
Sleep Aid
Limonene is a potent mood-boosting, antifungal, antibacterial and anticarcinogenic terpene.
Anti-anxiety
Anti-depressant
Anti-bacterial
Linalool has clinical potential as an anti-convulsant and anti-bacterial agent with pain and anxiety reduction qualities.
Anesthetic
Anti-convulsant
Anti-anxiety
Caryophyllene has beneficial properties against diabetes, depression, anxiety, osteoarthritis, and colitis.
Anti-inflammatory
Cell protection
Analgesic
Humulene is considered to be anti-tumor, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anorectic (suppresses appetite).
Anti-inflammatory
Appetite Suppressant
Analgesic
This theory states that using “whole plant medicine” where you are ingesting or inhaling multiple compounds from the cannabis plant changes and in some cases enhances the effects of these compounds.
Compounds such as terpenes also double down on the effectiveness of cannabinoids, creating more “bang for your buck” in your medicine.
There are many different ways to consume cannabis, below we’ve listed some of the most common consumption methods along with the pros and cons.
Both vaporizing and smoking cannabis allow for instant absorption through your lungs.
Best for ailments that require fast acting relief, like anxiety attacks, or breakthrough pain
Ingesting cannabis through edibles has a gradual, stronger and longer lasting effect.
Edibles provide long lasting relief for ailments that are constant like chronic pain, or insomnia.
Ingesting cannabinoids through tinctures and cannabis oil is quite similar to edibles but can absorb into your body much faster.
Tinctures provide long lasting relief, best for ailments that are constant like chronic pain, or insomnia.
