Many Health Benefits of Medical Marijuana, But Why Research Is Necessary!

Health Benefits of Medical MarijuanaMany people and groups agree there is a need for further research into cannabis and the possible health benefits of medical marijuana use. From the recreational user to the medical marijuana patient, and the general public to the federal government there are many reasons as to why medical marijuana should be legal. In January 2017, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine published a report on marijuana and marijuana by-products focusing on both therapeutic and harmful effects of cannabis. They recommended that further research be done to develop a comprehensive understanding of marijuana’s health effects, and that steps be taken to overcome regulatory barriers which may make it difficult to conduct such research.

Marijuana contains several elements known as cannabinoids. One such element, cannabidiol (CBD) has proven to be a powerful antiemetic that effectively relieves the nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. ProjectCBD.org notes that CBD reduces nausea by interacting with serotonin receptors, and that cannabis can sometimes relieve nausea more effectively than prescription pharmaceuticals. Preclinical studies indicate that the unheated version of CBD known as CBDA is an even more potent antiemetic than CBD. When given in relatively small doses one of the health benefits of medical marijuana has been shown to help alleviate both nausea and vomiting. CBD can also ease anxiety, which can help patients manage the angst of chronic nausea. Clearly, this is one area where further research could be extremely beneficial to individuals suffering from the negative effects of chemotherapy.

An additional reason as to why medical marijuana should be legal is due to the fact that some preliminary studies suggest that cannabis can inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Unfortunately, these studies are very few, with no clinical data proving that marijuana could be an effective method to use to stop cancer cells from spreading. This is another vital area of research that could help millions of cancer sufferers should clinical studies prove the efficacy of cannabis in treating cancer.

The available information in the area of heart health is not only controversial, but contradictory. Some studies show that marijuana users are more likely to have higher blood pressure, while others point out that cannabis is also a vasodilator, widening the blood vessels and lowering blood pressure. More research and clinical trials could help the medical community come to a conclusion on this point as to determine if this is potentially one of the multiple health benefits of medical marijuana.

Pregnant women have been known to use cannabis to help alleviate nausea and vomiting commonly known as morning sickness, which affects some gestating mothers all day long, affecting their ability to maintain a healthy diet while pregnant and interfering with activities of daily living. Some critics say that using marijuana while pregnant will adversely affect the developing fetus, however evidence to date shows only a four ounce reduction in birth weight in babies born to mothers who use cannabis while pregnant.

A final reason of this blog as to why medical marijuana should be legalized is because diabetics could potentially benefit from cannabis use as well. According to some proponents, marijuana improves insulin production, therefore preventing adult onset diabetes. Others maintain that cannabis use inhibits insulin production putting people at higher risk of developing diabetes. Clinical trials and in-depth research could help the scientific community come to a definite conclusion.

One thing is clear; there is still plenty of work to be done in terms of further research into cannabis and its health benefits from medical marijuana use. If you’re in the Colorado Springs area, Medical Alternatives is here to help you with all your medical marijuana needs. If you have any questions about the proper application of medical marijuana for your situation, please contact us at (719) 246-0393 or email us your questions at: hello@medicalalternativesclinics.com.

If you would like to schedule an appointment with one of the medical marijuana experts at our facility, please contact our MMJ clinics in Colorado Springs or Pueblo. We offer convenient same day appointments for current and prospective medical marijuana patients, and we can help you get your MMJ Red Card in three days or less!