The medical benefits of cannabis are finally coming to light now that many states are legalizing marijuana for medical use. Some of these medical benefits, such as the ability of cannabis to act as a pain reliever, are proven. However, many scientists believe cannabis has additional medical properties, such as the potential to help patients suffering from disorders such as ADHD and Alzheimer’s disease.
How Cannabis Can Help With Alzheimer’s
There are some people who are skeptical as to whether cannabis has the ability to treat Alzheimer’s disease. After all, marijuana use is often associated with the stigma of short-term memory loss. However, numerous studies link the use of cannabis with the potential prevention of Alzheimer’s disease.
The Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease published a pre-clinical study in 2014 that reveals how cannabis can help prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers believe that body’s overproduction of beta-amyloid proteins may be one of the leading causes of Alzheimer’s Disease.The Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease study concluded that small amounts of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) can slow down the body’s production of beta-amyloid proteins. Additionally, a study performed at the Salk Institute in California reveals that THC, along with other compounds found in marijuana, can actually reduce the number of beta-amyloid found in the brain.
These studies show the potential benefit that cannabis can have in slowing down or possibly even preventing Alzheimer’s disease. However, as of yet, there is no concrete evidence directly connecting the two.
How Cannabis Can Help With ADHD
One of the most commonly known effects of cannabis is relaxation. It is why medical marijuana is often prescribed to patients suffering from anxiety. It is also why many people choose to use marijuana in a recreational capacity. ADHD, or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, makes it difficult for sufferers to stay focused.
Recent research on cannabis and ADHD published in Germany back in 2015 reveals that patients with ADHD responded positively to cannabis use. The study used 30 subjects that all suffered from ADHD and that did not respond to Ritalin or Adderall. The use of cannabis helped to improve their concentration and their sleep in addition to reducing impulsiveness.
Cannabis could be a better alternative to standard ADHD medications for a number of reasons. ADHD medications are often stimulants that can cause potentially harmful side effects. These side effects include high blood pressure and an increased risk of heart disease. Cannabis use is not linked to any of these side effects.
As more studies focus on the potential benefits of cannabis, the more it looks like cannabis may provide medical benefits to individuals that are suffering from ADHD and Alzheimer’s disease. Although further research is needed, the use of cannabis as a medical alternative to potentially addictive prescription drugs looks to be a viable one.