Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder that disrupts the brain, nerves, and spinal cord. It controls the immune system to attack the myelin that coats the nerve fibres.
There is no cure for MS, but current treatments slow the disease’s progression and alleviate its symptoms. Common symptoms of multiple sclerosis include:
- Numbness and tingling
- Vision impairment
- Spasticity and muscle spasms
- Pain, fatigue, and weakness
- Movement difficulties
The real cause of multiple sclerosis is still unclear. However, studies using the EAE (experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis) model show that MS results from antigen-specific T cells. As these cells cross the blood-brain barrier, they cause neuroinflammation. This also destroys myelinated cells leading to subsequent paralysis.
Medical marijuana for MS symptoms
Medical marijuana may alleviate different MS symptoms, and some scientists note that it might stop the progression of the disease.
Cannabis has been shown to lessen the frequency and severity of muscle spasms. Medical marijuana also eases muscle spasms and lessens stiffness, making patients move with freedom and calm without the frequent urge to urinate.
Cannabis is an analgesic that relieves pain and inflammation without unnecessary side effects that come from pharmaceutical pills. Its ability to reduce pain and muscle spasms lead to better sleep.
Cannabis compounds can control bowel dysfunction by interacting with CB2 receptors on the peripheral nervous system that controls gut function.
Medical marijuana positively impacts mood and emotional distress.
Scientific studies note that cannabis compounds block the progression of immune cells attacking the central nervous system of MS sufferers. Cannabis is also anti-inflammatory.
Can cannabis help treat MS?
Medical marijuana can act as a great remedy for MS. The cannabis compound has two primary compounds, CBD and THC. These compounds produce beneficial effects that can suppress certain symptoms of multiple sclerosis. The common symptoms of MS that can be relieved by CBD and THC include fatigue, muscle stiffness, pain, depression, anxiety, and loss of appetite.
Medicinal marijuana also offers a huge array of positive effects on MS sufferers including:
- Relieve from nausea
- Improving appetite
- Improving muscle control issues
- Lowers seizures
- Lessening pain
- Reducing inflammation
Recreational marijuana also helps MS patients to gain relief from depression which is also associated with the condition. Living with MS is very challenging for many which makes the use of medical marijuana a suitable choice for these patients. Consuming high THC cannabis strains may help trim stress and anxiety. It can also have great long-term benefits on a patient’s mind.
Bottom line
The primary cannabis compounds CBD and THC have high medicinal properties. Patients with multiple sclerosis usually use prescription medications for their condition. However, these pharmaceutical pills do not work for every patient, and they usually come with tons of side effects. This makes medical marijuana a great alternative for people who have failed with prescription medications.
Cannabis can help relieve some of the symptoms and manage the condition without side effects. Cannabis is also a natural and nutritious plant that can improve different aspects of your health. Nonetheless, before consuming cannabis for MS ensure to consult a healthcare provider to receive guides on how to use the drug.
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