Cannabis and Multiple Sclerosis

Cannabis and Multiple Sclerosis

Marijuana has gained a lot of traction when it comes to treating symptoms related to Multiple Sclerosis. Patients worldwide have gained so much relief from pain, gastrointestinal distress, muscle spasms, and even paralysis after consuming cannabis. But most people don’t know how cannabis effectively treats an incurable neurodegenerative disorder. This article focuses on how cannabis eases symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis.

What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?

Multiple sclerosis is a degenerative condition affecting the nerves in the central nervous system. Presently it has no cure, but treatment may ease some of its symptoms. Cannabis can help in treating several symptoms of MS. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a severe and incurable condition that leads to several symptoms, which can become debilitating.

According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, about 1 million U.S adults in the US may suffer from MS. However, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke suggests a lower figure of 250,000–350,000, but these figures are not exact.  MS causes the immune system to be overactive and damages brain cells, spinal cord, or optical nerves that make up the central nervous system.

MS can severely damage the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. The marijuana plant, or Cannabis sativa, has compounds that can affect your mind and body. According to an influential national group of scientific institutions, marijuana, aka cannabis, might help ease stiffness and muscle spasms that come with MS. Several studies suggest that marijuana and cannabinoids may relieve insomnia in people with MS, fibromyalgia, and several other medical conditions.

Ways cannabis eases MS symptoms

It Protects Your Brain

Multiple Sclerosis patients mostly suffer from inflammation. When immune cells become active, they release pro-inflammatory proteins called cytokines, which cause severe inflammation in the brain. This eventually leads to the destruction of neurons and other cells.

Active cannabis compounds known as cannabinoids have anti-inflammatory properties. Compounds such as THC or CBD deactivate the immune system and blocks the violent assault on the central nervous system.

Cannabinoids have several chemicals that promote neurogenesis in adults, which is the creation of new brain cells. Apart from cannabinoids, other compounds that encourage brain cells include dark chocolate, Tea, Red wine (only in moderation), Sex, Exercise.

Cannabinoids also act as potent antioxidants, which give them neuroprotective properties. These compounds fight against oxidative stress, protecting your cells, tissues, and DNA from damage. The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neurogenetic qualities in the cannabis plant make it a potent brain-relieving medicine.

It Eases Pain

Cannabis can act as a potential solution for chronic pain. Cannabis compounds like THC and CBD interact with pain receptors in the body. The ability of cannabis to combat inflammation is due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

When your bodily tissues start swelling, they deteriorate, which can be a painful experience. Furthermore, nerve cells transmit pain signals out to the rest of the body as they deteriorate.

Marijuana may be beneficial for people with MS.

According to some scientific evidence, cannabis can lessen pain, muscle problems, and bladder issues related to MS. But there’s a need for more clinical studies to confirm these findings.