Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
We are past the days where marijuana is associated primarily with teenage stoners with the munchies. The potent plant plays a vital part in the wellness of millions of people worldwide. In 2021, medical cannabis was a growing sector of the health care industry in more than half the country’s states. Additionally, many recreational users are unaware of the benefits of marijuana for their mental and physical well-being.
Weed to Treat Arthritis
Over 55 million adults in the U.S. have a doctor’s diagnosis for arthritis. This painful condition limits their daily functions and often prevents them from achieving goals, such as activities with loved ones. Finding an effective treatment is vital to helping these patients reclaim their lives. The effects of marijuana use have the potential to give them back every bit they lost with their diagnosis.
There are over 500 active naturally occurring compounds in cannabis. More than 140 are phytocannabinoids. These are unique because they interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system.
Also known as the ECS, it consists of endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors, and enzymes. The receptors are found throughout the body and help regulate all major functions, including appetite, mood, and pain. Research has shown that cannabinoid receptors play an important role in disease prevention and management.
One of the most studied uses for THC and CBD, two of the most known cannabis compounds, is relief from arthritis pain.
A 2020 study of Cannabis and Cannabinoids in the Treatment of Rheumatic Diseases found:
“In conclusion, we believe that the use of cannabis and cannabinoids for pain relief in rheumatic diseases (and fibromyalgia in particular) shows great potential and may be a source of hope for those suffering from chronic pain associated with those conditions, and for the physicians treating them.”
Replace NSAIDs with Marijuana
However, you don’t need to have everyday chronic pain from conditions like arthritis to experience the benefits of marijuana. You can replace regular pain relievers, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, with cannabis. The right formula can provide all-natural relief without a high. Additionally, there are many studies and patient testimonials about phytocannabinoid-rich topical applications that provide localized relief.
Many consumers believe Non-Steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs are 100% safe for regular use. However, these over-the-counter medications can cause serious problems, including an increased risk of heart failure and stroke, kidney damage, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Additionally, it might contribute to an increase in systolic blood pressure and lead to respiratory problems.
Additionally, you don’t have to smoke cannabis to experience the benefits. Many people take a daily prescribed dose that doesn’t induce euphoria. Instead, they reduce pain and other symptoms without causing a high.
Also, topical applications are a popular way to use cannabis. These are similar to the creams and rubs you buy over the counter with capsaicin and menthol to reduce muscle and joint pain. They offer localized results without breaking the blood-brain barrier.
Cannabis for Depression & PTSD
One thing many will agree on about weed is it promotes good moods, smiles, and giggles. The popular flower is well-known for its ability to encourage excellent social interactions. So, it comes as no surprise that research backs consumer reports that cannabis may combat depression.
Studies are starting to show that cannabis can improve symptoms of PTSD and help people overcome the debilitating symptoms. A recent Forbes article found that those with PTSD were more than 2.5 times likelier to recover when they used cannabis compared to those who didn’t.
As more research is available, medical professionals will be able to guide patients to specific strains and ratios for the best results.
Medical Cannabis to Improve & Maintain Focus
ADHD and conditions that reduce focus are debilitating for the people experiencing them. When you’re easily distracted, it’s more than challenging to complete tasks. To those around you, the symptoms of ADHD can appear to be laziness or disinterest. In addition to affecting work and school life, ADHD can impact one’s personal life with friends, family members, and romantic partners.
The medications available to treat this condition have various results. Some people can thrive with stimulant medications for many years. However, people often develop a tolerance to stimulants, making them dangerous to maintain the same levels of focus.
One individual with ADHD explained how cannabis helped her with symptom relief:
“People with ADHD are hyper-aware of everything around us like the noises, the smells, where things are, we notice the weirdest patterns in a room with people. Cannabis gave me the ability to have that silence and to feel a little bit more focused.”
The effects of marijuana use on the mind and body are well-documented. Thousands of studies show the advantages of medical cannabis for everything from pain and mood to improving focus. To learn how the benefits of marijuana can improve your physical and mental wellness, schedule an appointment today to get your medical use card in Florida and join countless of other patients experiencing the wonders of all-natural health care.
At Compassionate Healthcare of Florida, you’ll find professional doctors ready to assist you in your journey towards medical marijuana. From hundreds of qualifying conditions, you’ll obtain your medical marijuana card in no time once you sign up with Compassionate Healthcare of Florida.
Once you’ve been granted a license, you can explore the wide world of medical marijuana at a medical dispensary near you!
Compassionate Healthcare of Florida
www.flmmjhealth.com
Call for Appointments (833) 633-3665
