There are myriad benefits to the use of marijuana. You may be unsure how to get started or want to know what the best strains are for a particular ailment. Some benefits are not as widely known but can be helpful when looking for how to get the most bang for your buck.

SLOWS CANCER

Researchers in California reported that Cannabidiol (CBD) may be prevent cancer from spreading in the body. Experiments were run on breast cancer cells in a lab with a high level of Id-1 (a gene that promotes cancer spreading), and treated it with cannabidiol. The outcome was positive, in that the cells decreased expression of Id-1, which became less aggressive spreaders. Marijuana has been shown to slow tumor growth in brain, breast, and lungs.

ALZHEIMER’S PREVENTION

Anyone who lives with, or has lost, a loved one with Alzheimer’s knows how detrimental it is to the person along with family and friends. THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, has been shown to slow progression of the disease. This happens by blocking the enzyme in the brain that forms amyloid plaques, which kill brain cells, and potentially lead to Alzheimer’s disease.

GLAUCOMA

Glaucoma increases pressure on the eye, injuring the optic nerve, and causing loss of vision. Marijuana can lower the pressure in the eye.

ARTHRITIS

Cannabis has been show in research to reduce pain and inflammation, promote sleep, and help relieve pain and discomfort for people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis.

HEPATITIS C

Treatment of Hepatitis C infection has severe side effects which can make it hard for people to continue treatment. Side effects may last for months, but medical marijuana has been show to support lessening of side effects, increasing effectiveness of treatment.

ANXIETY

People with anxiety reported lower levels of anxiety and improve mood.

IMPROVE LUNG HEALTH

Marijuana may improve lung function, and even lung capacity, in some people who want to reverse the carcinogenic effects of tobacco.

CHEMO SUPPORT

Medical marijuana is used most widely for people going through chemotherapy. People who have cancer experience severe pain, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. This can lead to further complications. Marijuana can help reduce these side effects.

PTSD

People who use marijuana may experience less severe symptoms of fear and anxiety who have existing PTSD. Naturally occurring cannabinoids, similar to THC, help control the system that causes these effects to rise in the body and brain.

BRAIN SUPPORT

Marijuana can help heal the brain after a concussion, or other traumatic injury by lessening bruising of the brain and helping with healing after injury.