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Medicinal use of cannabinoids is logical, since our bodies produce some of the same chemicals (endocannabinoids) for healthy brain function.
Check with a medical professional before using any cannabis product for medicinal treatment.
The history of using cannabis for medical benefits goes back thousands of years in many cultures. The scientific evidence of the medicinal properties of cannabinoids is increasing as governments are loosening regulations and permitting more research.
Depending on the ailment, the following are different ways cannabinoids are administered for medical benefits:
For decades, Western conventional medicine has used cannabinoids (some synthetic) for the treatment of nausea, particularly for those taking chemotheraphy.
It has also been used to increase the appetite of those with HIV/AIDS.
Book NowCannabinoids are used to reduce pain, particularly from nerve damage or inflammation. It’s also used to reduce migraines.
Some doctors prefer cannabis to avoid the bad side effects and dangers of prescription opioids.
Many conditions include muscle spasms or muscle spasticity. Parkinson’s patients report it’s effective.
Spasms are thought to come from the area of the brain that controls movement, where there are many cannabinoid receptors.
Animal studies and cannabis-user surveys suggest that low levels of cannabis are effective for anxiety. Brain scans show that CBD oil triggers changes in blood flow to regions in the brain linked with feelings of anxiety, indicating it for OCD, too.
The FDA has approved cannabinoids to treat patients over 2 years old with Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (two types of epilepsi). The plant-based formula has been shown in recent studies to be more effective than other treatments.
Medications with cannabis extracts and THC are used in Germany, Israel, and Canada to treat Tourette syndrome. Some states have legalized medical marijuana particularly for the treatment of Tourette syndrome.
The benefits of cannabis for sleep problems and restless leg syndrome have been reported for many years.
Research is just now analyzing the effects cannabinoids have on this very important biological need: a good night’s sleep.
Patients have reported cannabis reduces symptoms of PTSD, such as nightmares, panic attacks, hypervigilance, personal detachment and more.
Cannabis reduces amygdala activity, the organ causing the fear response.
Other illnesses that have been positive results from cannabis use: menopause, Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis, hypertension.
Human Food
Hemp seed, or parts of it, are FDA-aproved and used as a protein, carbohydrate, or oil ingredient in beverages (juices, smoothies, protein drinks, plant-based alternatives to dairy products), soups, dips, spreads, sauces, dressings, plant-based alternatives to meat products, desserts, baked goods, cereals, snacks, and nutrition bars.
Some eat unprocessed hemp seeds as a vegetarian source of protein that is easily digested. The hemp seed does not contain THC or CBD.
Where legal, cannabis, with the active cannabinoids, is consumed (for a medical or recreational purpose) in foods, such as gummies, cookies or tea.
Animal Food
At this time, cannabis products are not used in animal feed, and anyone wanting to give it to their pet as a treatment should consult with a veterinarian.
Hemp seed (actually a nut) is found in birdseed because birds like it and it is high in fat.
The cannabis plant (or hemp) has been used to make practical products for hundreds of years. However, using hemp in manufacturing products on a large scale is in its infancy.
Better for the Environment
One acre of hemp produces as much fiber as 2-3 acres of corn.