Exploring Pros, Cons of Cannabis Consumption

Cannabis use in medicine has been perceived by society as an alternative method of treatment for most of human history. However, with incredible technological advancement and research conducted in medicine and pharmaceutical disciplines, each step forward proves massive benefits that come from this plant. Still, the negative sides should be discussed, as well.

Today, we will talk about some advantages and possible liabilities of using cannabis, both medicinal and recreational, in your daily routine.

Health Benefits Connected to Cannabis Use

First and foremost, cannabis and its major constituents, cannabinoids came to prominence for relieving pain that can be a side effect of various health-related issues. No matter if one breaks a bone, experiences chronic back pain or suffers from cancer pain, cannabis is an effective pain reliever.

CBD or cannabidiol is one of the most abundant cannabinoids that stimulates bone growth and enhances fracture healing, leaving the bones up to 50% stronger after the treatment with CBD.

Its use is gaining a lot of popularity due to the plant’s pain-relieving properties, since it causes no detrimental side effects, as opposed to strong prescription drugs.

Anxiety, depression, and insomnia are vicious mental conditions troubling a rising portion of the world’s population. Some incredible results in battling these are achieved through therapy. Still, the treatment itself often includes heavy medication, such as antidepressants and anxiolytics, that can cause severe side effects.

Once again, cannabis comes to the rescue, helping millions every day to relax, lift their spirits, and have healthy sleep habits.

Also, symptoms of some severe nervous system diseases, such as multiple sclerosis and dementia, can be significantly relieved through the consumption of CBD in the form of oils and tinctures, through smoking, eating edibles, vaping, etc.

MS or multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that attacks muscle tissue, typically in people aged 20 to 40 years. Muscular spasms and stiffness in muscles are some of the most common symptoms that can be alleviated through treatment with cannabis.

Dementia is caused by neuroinflammation, which damages both the body and mind of the person suffering from it. Some of its symptoms include agitation and aggressive behavior. Such symptoms can be alleviated substantially through cannabis-based therapy.

We have mentioned cancer-induced pain, but this is not the only benefit in battling this vile disease. More precisely, clinical studies and trials have shown the importance of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) in reducing chemotherapy-related vomiting. Chemotherapy also causes neural impairment that leads to weakness and numbness. Cannabis use has had a positive influence on patients, especially those consuming Dronabinol, one of the few FDA-approved cannabis-based drugs. This drug helps patients increase their appetite and prevent weight loss caused by chemotherapy.

Health-Related Drawbacks of Cannabis

The most discussed issue with cannabis is the proclivity of its abuse and dependence. Many people already use it as a prescription drug. However, five out of the ten most common addictions in the US are related to prescription drug abuse, cannabis included. The withdrawal syndrome is severe and comes with insomnia, abdominal pain, headaches, increased sweating, and shakiness. Drug abuse is the leading cause of other detriments discussed below.

Cannabis use can influence the triggering of paranoia and schizophrenia much earlier in life if one has genetic or hereditary predispositions toward them.

For instance, a study conducted at Oxford University revealed that 50% of people who were given cannabis had symptoms of paranoia, as opposed to the 30% of those given a placebo. THC is most commonly perceived as a trigger for such behavior.

Another study by Dr. Barzilay of the Sackler School of Medicine came to the conclusion that adolescents susceptible to schizophrenia, whether genetic or hereditary, had a much higher chance of being diagnosed with this disease earlier in life, describing cannabis use as “playing with fire.”

Furthermore, many people have some form of cardiovascular disease. Those people are advised to stay off cannabis, as it can dilate their blood vessels, make the heart pump blood faster, and thus increase their heart rate. The obvious outcome is the often fatal cardiac arrest.

People who have difficulty breathing should not consider smoking cannabis. Cannabis smoke can damage the bronchial tree even more, and tar residue is up to four times larger than in cigarette smokers. If you still want to use cannabis, consider switching to cannabis-based products.

The Verdict

Overall, cannabis use comes with plenty of positives, but some negatives as well. It can go both ways. First of all, remember to check whether it is legal in your state or country. After that, make sure to consult with your doctor about cannabis use safety and thoroughly go over your health history. That is the most important step in your potential cannabis use routine. Stay safe, and do a lot of reading. You can always find useful information.