Cannabis has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years and now modern science is finally catching up. The term ‘medical cannabis’ refers to the use of the cannabis plant and its components―called cannabinoids―to treat disease or improve symptoms of chronic conditions.
Pain is the most common reason patients seek medical cannabis, as this safe, natural medicine reduces the need for stronger painkillers. Cannabis has been found to be especially effective for chronic pain, neuropathic pain, and spasticity related to multiple sclerosis.
From a scientific standpoint, cannabis is considered a promising, healthy pain management alternative to dangerously over-prescribed opioids due to its non-existent risk of addiction, lack of fatal overdose potential, and ability to manage chronic pain by targeting both inflammation and the endocannabinoid system. It reduces the need for stronger painkillers, with studies indicating high effectiveness for neuropathic and chronic pain.
Recent studies have increased our understanding of the mechanisms of cannabinoid-induced pain relief. When ingested or inhaled, THC or CBD bind to specific receptors on the brain and nerve cells, which slows pain impulses and eases discomfort through specific actions, including:
- The release of neurotransmitters and neuropeptides from presynaptic nerve endings
- Modulation of postsynaptic neuron excitability
- Activation of descending inhibitory pain pathways
- Reduction of neural inflammation
Raw Kiki Wellness Newsletter: Your Healthy Life.
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