Cannabis isn’t a miracle cure, but its potential as a therapeutic tool is undeniable and ever-growing. For thousands of years, humans have used cannabis for its various healing properties, but only in recent decades have we begun to study it in earnest. While some of cannabis' medicinal applications are backed by rigorous scientific research, many others are still anecdotal, underscoring the need for continued study. The truth is, cannabis affects every individual differently, and while some may find relief, others may not. It's not a one-size-fits-all solution, and that’s okay. With the increasing interest and evolving research, cannabis has become an exciting option for managing a variety of health conditions, especially for those with complex needs like ADHD, chronic pain, anxiety, and more.

Each person’s relationship with cannabis is unique, and it can take time and experimentation to find the right dosage, strain, and delivery method. What’s most important is understanding how cannabis can work with your body to potentially alleviate some of the challenges you may face. Let’s dive into the therapeutic uses of cannabis, based on the latest research and personal experiences from individuals who’ve seen first-hand the positive impact it can have.

ADHD: A Controversial Yet Growing Area of Interest

Managing ADHD with cannabis remains a topic of debate in the medical community. While it’s not a first-line treatment, some individuals with ADHD report that cannabis helps them regulate impulsivity, hyperactivity, and executive dysfunction. The theory behind this is that cannabinoids, particularly THC and CBD, may influence the dopamine system in the brain—regulating mood, focus, and attention. Although research is still in the early stages, anecdotal evidence suggests that the calming effects of certain strains of cannabis may help individuals with ADHD feel more centered and focused.

However, ADHD treatment is highly individualized, and what works for one person may not work for another. Cannabis may help some manage symptoms, but it should always be considered as part of a holistic approach, and should not replace other evidence-based treatments unless directed by a healthcare provider. Because the research is still evolving, it’s crucial for anyone considering cannabis as an option for ADHD to start slow, track their responses, and work closely with their doctor.

Anxiety and Depression: A Double-Edged Sword

When it comes to anxiety and depression, cannabis is a deeply personal remedy, with varying effects on different individuals. CBD has been shown in some studies to reduce anxiety by interacting with serotonin receptors in the brain. For some, this results in a soothing effect, easing stress and tension. On the other hand, THC has the potential to elevate mood and stabilize emotional highs and lows. However, there is also the risk that too much THC, particularly in higher doses, can cause feelings of paranoia or anxiety—especially in those who are sensitive to it.

Many people, myself included, have seen both positive and negative experiences with cannabis in managing anxiety and depression. For some, a small dose of THC paired with CBD can bring significant relief, while others find that even a tiny amount of THC makes their anxiety worse. This highlights the importance of experimenting with different strains and doses to discover what works best for your unique needs. Start low, go slow, and track your progress—this is the key to understanding how cannabis affects your mental health.

Pain Management: The Gold Standard of Cannabis Relief

Pain management is one of the most well-known and studied uses of cannabis, and for good reason. Cannabis has been researched for its effectiveness in treating conditions such as arthritis, chronic pain, nerve damage, and migraines. Its powerful anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties make it a popular option for those looking to find relief from persistent pain that traditional medications may not adequately address.

My father’s experience with cannabis for neuropathy, a condition that causes nerve pain, truly opened my eyes to its potential. After years of restless nights filled with pain and discomfort, he found that cannabis allowed him to sleep through the night for the first time in years. The relief was nothing short of life-changing, and it gave him back a sense of independence and comfort he hadn’t had in years. Cannabis doesn’t just help dull the pain—it can help improve quality of life, enhance mobility, and allow for a more active, engaged lifestyle.

PTSD: A Helping Hand in Emotional Healing

For individuals living with PTSD, cannabis may offer a sense of calm amidst the emotional storm. PTSD can result from trauma that disrupts the natural processing of emotions and memories, leading to symptoms such as flashbacks, hypervigilance, and anxiety. Cannabis is believed to regulate the endocannabinoid system, which plays a key role in emotional responses and memory processing. Many veterans, survivors of trauma, and others living with PTSD have turned to cannabis to alleviate symptoms, and some have reported life-changing results.

While cannabis has shown promise in providing relief, caution should be taken with dosage and strains, as some individuals may experience exacerbation of symptoms when using cannabis, particularly in high doses or with certain strains of THC. It’s important to work with a healthcare provider when using cannabis to manage PTSD to ensure you’re on the right path.

Epilepsy: An Effective Treatment Option for Seizures

Cannabis has long been researched for its effectiveness in treating epilepsy, particularly the severe, drug-resistant forms. One of the most notable successes in this area is Epidiolex, an FDA-approved drug derived from CBD, which has been shown to significantly reduce seizures in children with rare forms of epilepsy, such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. The impact of CBD on seizure frequency has provided hope for many parents and individuals living with epilepsy, offering them a treatment option where traditional medications have failed.

While cannabis has shown remarkable potential for seizure management, it’s important to approach it with caution and under medical supervision, particularly for children or those with more complex medical needs. As with all cannabis-based treatments, finding the right dosage and delivery method is key to achieving the best results.

While cannabis may not be the right solution for everyone, its potential in managing a variety of health conditions is undeniable. Whether it’s addressing chronic pain, managing anxiety, or offering relief from PTSD, cannabis has proven to be a valuable tool for many individuals. As we continue to explore and understand the benefits and risks of cannabis use, it’s important to stay informed, approach treatment with respect, and work closely with healthcare professionals to determine the best path forward.

Need help navigating applying for a marijuana medical card? Check out our cheat sheet to get you started! 

Sources:

1. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH): This resource provides an overview of cannabis and cannabinoids, highlighting their potential in treating conditions like chronic pain, nausea and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy, and loss of appetite and weight loss associated with HIV/AIDS.
2. Harvard Health Publishing: An article discussing the medical uses of marijuana, including its applications in managing nausea, weight loss, and glaucoma, as well as its potential benefits for veterans with PTSD.
3. Health.com: This article outlines various benefits of cannabis, such as its potential to alleviate anxiety, chronic pain, and its possible role in reducing opioid use.
4. American Cancer Society: Provides information on the potential benefits of cannabis for cancer patients, including relief from pain, nausea and vomiting, and loss of appetite.
5. Healthline: Discusses the benefits of marijuana, focusing on its compounds like cannabidiol (CBD) and their potential therapeutic effects.