In tandem with its legalization were (and still are) numerous conversations, studies, and debates on the potential health concerns and benefits of weed. Despite the general public’s growing acceptance of cannabis, what many people still aren’t aware of are its variety of uses.
With such an extensive history, and with so many forms in which people can consume it nowadays, there are more reasons than ever to choose cannabis over other mind- and mood-altering substances. Its mental and physical effects are just one small part of the role it’s played throughout history, and that role keeps changing as we find new applications for the plant.
Read on to learn more about the benefits of weed and why you might consider cannabis versus other treatment options.
Provides Pain Management
One of the most popular uses for medicinal marijuana is pain management. In fact, studies show that marijuana can be used to treat a “variety of painful conditions, from headache to the pain of childbirth.”
In today’s heavily pharmaceutically based society, having an all-natural alternative to habit-forming opioids is a great option — and one of the most appealing benefits of weed — for consumers.
While each strain has its own blend of terpenes that will appeal to different tastes and use cases, the mentally uplifting sativas can be just as helpful as the relaxing body effect of indicas for patients in pain. Our cannabis experts at The Santa Fe Dispensary can help you find the best weed strain for your needs.
Increases Appetite
It may sound obvious, but the benefits of weed for increasing appetite are far more nuanced than the stereotypical Hollywood trope of stoned teenagers stuffing their faces with Cheetos.
Marijuana helps stimulate an appetite and encourage weight gain for patients undergoing medical treatment. Often, patients undergoing chemotherapy will appreciate the mental stress relief as well as the revitalization of their appetites during an otherwise stressful and emotional time in their lives.
Alleviates Insomnia & Anxiety
Often mischaracterized to increase anxiety in consumers, one of the benefits of weed is that it can, in fact, do the opposite.
A study by the University of Washington’s Alcohol & Drug Abuse Institute shows that CBD in all doses reduces anxiety symptoms, while THC in low doses also reduces anxiety symptoms (high doses of THC have been shown to increase anxiety).
As a result, it can also help people suffering from insomnia sleep more soundly at night. An experienced budtender can recommend the best strain for a sound night’s sleep.
Potentially Treat Seizures & Epilepsy
A study published in 2020 illustrated the benefits of weed in effectively reducing recurring seizures and for treating “childhood-onset refractory epilepsies.”
While these results are still being analyzed for long-term effectiveness, the anticonvulsant properties of CBD have been mentioned throughout historical writings.
It’s worth noting that you should always speak to your doctor or a medical professional about using cannabis to treat medical conditions.
Celebrating the Numerous Benefits of Weed
Not everyone looks to weed for its medicinal benefits; some look to it to elevate their moods or relax their bodies and minds.
But whether you’re considering cannabis as an alternative to modern medicine or for recreational use, one thing is clear: In today’s diverse weed market, there are nearly as many strains and THC-infused products — from traditional flower-based smokables to drinks and edibles to topical creams — as there are days in a year.
The benefits of weed are endless, and if you’ve ever wondered whether cannabis could positively improve your life, you’re not alone. Our experienced staff has helped many customers find the best bud for their unique needs.
Stop by the shop and check out our variety of products today.