Arthritis is a disease that most people associate with the elderly. But even young people suffer from arthritis. In addition to medications to help in relieving pain, there are other options, including medical marijuana for arthritis.
Alternative medicines, including medical marijuana for arthritis
The use of marijuana is on the rise. Its popularity in the medical field as an alternative treatment is due to its beneficial therapeutic properties. Its compounds CBD and THC are effective pain relievers and have anti-inflammatory properties.
The choice of marijuana strain also matters a lot. It’s important that you pick a potent strain to be of most benefit, which is why strains are a topic of discussion later in this article.
While the relationship between medical marijuana and arthritis is still unclear due to limited research, some studies suggest that, indeed, there is a connection. If you have arthritis, then an in-depth conversation with Green Health Docs regarding marijuana and arthritis will help you make an informed decision, and if needed, you can get your Maryland medical marijuana card to start consuming legally.
What is arthritis?
Arthritis is the inflammation of joints that can affect one or many joints, causing endless pain to the individual. It can also refer to about 200 other joint problems, including conditions such as gout, arthritis, lupus, osteoarthritis, lupus, and fibromyalgia.
Some studies show that many Americans have some form of arthritis. Even more surprising is the fact that arthritis can affect more than 50% of people under the age of 65.
The first signs of arthritis are morning stiffness, swelling, and painful joints. The secondary effects include tiredness, difficulty in moving your hands, and restlessness.
There are different types of arthritis, and each of them has its own unique cause. For instance, when wounds do not heal well, they may cause degenerative arthritis. As for osteoporosis, it has a genetic component.
Medical marijuana for arthritis: What research says
Arthritis results from the inflammation of tissues in the joints. Thus, managing the condition requires a treatment that fights the inflammation.
Fortunately, cannabis is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties. While there are more than 100 compounds in the marijuana plant, CBD and THC are the main compounds that fight pain and inflammation.
Recent research on animals shows that CBD from marijuana could help to cure arthritis and ease the inflammatory pain linked to arthritis. In a 2011 study, researchers discovered that CBD helped in relieving inflammatory pain in rats. According to the study, CBD chemicals alter the response of pain receptors to stimuli.
Another study examined the effects of topical application of CBD. A major finding was that CBD could reduce pain and inflammation without causing side effects. Other studies and reviews also suggest that CBD can be effective in treating osteoarthritis (OA), which is a type of arthritis.
However, research on the subject faces lots of limitations. As a result, there is insufficient clinical evidence to support the claim that marijuana is a reliable method in the treatment of arthritis, despite promising preclinical trials.
8 strains of medical marijuana for arthritis
Before using any strains of marijuana, you must know your lifestyle and weed tolerance levels. This will allow you to find the right dosage and the best strain that suits your condition.
Apart from using marijuana, other alternatives that you can go for are CBD tinctures; this CBD tincture made a huge impact among its users, for example.
1. Cannatonic
The strain is a popular hybrid with high CBD levels with less THC content. Cannatonic works well with any pain and muscle spasm. This strain can help relax aching muscles.
2. Girl Scout Cookies (GSC)
The GSC has high THC levels and can be the right choice for severe pain, stress, and depression. CBD and turmeric for pain relief are other options.
3. Anesthesia
Anesthesia is an Indica strain that is good for night use due to its strong calming effect.
4. Power Plant
Power Plant is a pure Sativa. It has bone protection and pain-relieving properties, which makes it suitable for arthritis patients.
5. Pennywise
Pennywise is best for the afternoon because of its mild psychoactive effects. This strain can block pain and help in the treatment of other mental conditions.
6. The Death Star
The Death Star is an Indica strain containing high levels of THC that provide a mental high. You can use the Death Star to manage evening pain.
7. Harlequin
Harlequin strain is a suitable choice for patients who don’t want sedation or intoxication. It is a Sativa with high CBD content that can reduce inflammation and pain.
8. ACDC
ACDC is a popular strain that does not alter your mood and is best known for its medicinal properties and non-psychoactive effects. Pain relief can come quickly with this strain.
Conclusions on medical marijuana for arthritis
The available studies suggest that there is a relationship between marijuana and arthritis. Marijuana seems to be a reliable alternative treatment to manage different conditions relating to arthritis due to its beneficial healing properties. However, there is a need for more research on the subject to prove precisely how marijuana impacts arthritis and its health potential when combined with turmeric.
If you plan on using marijuana for arthritis, then it is important to consult an expert first. Your doctor will give you the best advice about dosage.
While the use of medical marijuana for arthritis treatment is promising, the effects could vary widely from one patient to another. Understanding the right strain to suit your condition will enable you to maximize the therapeutic effects of marijuana.