CAN CANNABIS CURE? A BRIEF MEDICAL HISTORY
Over the centuries cannabis has used to treat a variety of maladies. The legitimacy of cannabis in the medical sphere has been questioned by many especially in the 21st century. However, cannabis has a pronounced history of benefits for specific illnesses. In this brief article we will attempt to touch on a few of those.
Cannabis (specifically CBD) has been used and approved by the FDA to treat seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS), Dravet syndrome, or tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) in patients 1 year or older. For those who suffer from these conditions CBD can be a true miracle. The medication, Epidiolex, was the first and remains the only FDA-approved prescription medication derived from cannabis.
Historically, cannabis also was an incredibly helpful drug for those suffering from HIV/AIDS during the crisis in the 1980s. Often, cannabis was the only drug that worked against wasting syndrome to combat nausea and allow the sick to hold down their food. There are many important figures in the cannabis world like Brownie Mary who knew the benefits of cannabis for HIV/AIDs patients and helped them at risk of her own imprisonment.
Cannabis has a proven track record of decreasing the likelihood of nausea and vomiting. This is especially true for cancer patients who are being treated with chemotherapy. A common side effect of chemo is the loss of appetite and nausea. Several small studies have confirmed this benefit. More recently, a compelling study reported that THC and other cannabinoids have been shown to slow growth and even destroy certain types of cancer cells. Other studies done on animals suggest that certain cannabinoids may slow growth and reduce the spread of certain forms of cancer. This research is still in its infancy but has promising outcomes.
The benefits of cannabis for chronic pain are also well documented. While not enough thorough research has been done there is hope on the horizon for more comprehensive studies.
With the recent passing of H.R.8454 (The Medical Marijuana and Cannabidiol Research Expansion Act) it is now easier for scientists to utilize cannabis for research purposes. This is major news as it allows for increased funding as well as government permits for scientists who wish to study the effects of cannabis. Cannabis can now be treated like any other pharmaceutical with rigorous scientific testing. This means the many benefits of cannabis can be proven and bolstered by actual research.
Several smaller studies conducted before the passing of this legislation hint at others possible benefits. From lowering blood pressure, to reducing inflammation, to helping prevent relapse when recovering from drug and alcohol addiction cannabinoids have a complex range of potential effects. CBD has the potential to treat anxiety disorders, treat or even prevent gastrointestinal disorders, fight cancer, and lessen seizure frequency.
It’s clear that even without comprehensive studies, cannabis has provided relief to millions of Americans. While many of these benefits are anecdotal it cannot be understated how meaningful any relief. Cannabis has become a non-addictive pain reliever to many people. Many tout the mental health benefits as well, from easing symptoms associated with PTSD and anxiety, to easing the effects of depression. Cannabis is a wonder-drug for many people. Hopefully, with less barriers in the scientific world, research will start to show the meaningful benefits of cannabis.