Cannabis has historically been associated with stigma due to its effects, but it is now gaining recognition for its potential in various medical fields. In recent years, research into the therapeutic properties of cannabis has notably increased, particularly regarding its benefits for neurological conditions.
Beyond its well-known uses for stress relief, alleviating depression, and enhancing sleep, cannabis shows promise in addressing a wide range of neurological disorders. In this article, we explore five such conditions and how cannabis or cannabis contributes to their therapeutic applications.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- Certain cannabinoids and terpenes show unique effects on various neurological disorders.
- Linalool, myrcene, and limonene exhibit anti-convulsant properties.
- Equal amounts of THC and CBD, along with other cannabis compounds, have potential in cancer treatment.
A Natural Approach to Managing Neurological Disorders
The approach to managing conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), brain tumors, Parkinson’s disease (PD), intractable epilepsy, and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) varies according to individual patient needs and the severity of their conditions.
Cannabis is a Viable Treatment Option
Epilepsy
The endocannabinoid system affects seizure thresholds. THC, in particular, can completely halt seizures, unlike phenobarbital and diphenylhydantoin. Research has shown that cannabinoids possess anti-convulsant properties even at non-sedating levels.
THC, THCA, and linalool, a terpenoid in cannabis, have been subjects of scientific inquiry. The complexities surrounding THCA include debates about its CB1 activity compared to its conversion to THC.
Recent studies indicate that cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) also has anti-convulsant properties, demonstrating a higher affinity for the 5-HT1A receptor than CBD.
If you’re interested in exploring cannabis vape pens for your condition, consider products that contain THC, CBD, THCA, or Linalool.
BudsByMail Canada offers THC Distillate Disposable Vape pen Skittlez, which includes linalool among its primary terpenes with 16 to 21% THC.
Brain Tumors
Numerous studies have investigated the use of cannabis in patients with diagnosed brain tumors. A study published in the British Journal of Cancer found that administering THC directly into tumors in patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) extended their lives slightly in nine cases.
A case report documented complete regression of residual tumors in two children with pilocytic astrocytomas after smoking cannabis.
THCA acts as a PPARγ agonist, potentially outperforming CBDA, CBD, or THC in impact. PPARs target cancer cells selectively while sparing normal cells. The synergistic effects of THCA with cytotoxic agents highlight its potential in cancer therapy.
Equal concentrations of THC and CBD, combined with THCA, CBDA, and terpenes like limonene, have significant potential in cancer treatment, as suggested by a study in the Planta Medicine Journal. Disposable cannabis pens can encapsulate these cannabinoids and terpenes in one cartridge.
Parkinson’s Disease
An observational study found that 22 out of 28 patients could tolerate smoked cannabis, likely THC-predominant. The study reported acute benefits, including improvements in tremor, rigidity, and bradykinesia among participants.
In Parkinson’s disease, the loss of cells in the substantia nigra leads to widespread pathology over time. Changes in tau proteins, crucial for neuronal function, result in neurofibrillary tangles.
Nabiximols, a cannabis-based oral spray, reduced tangles when administered to parkin-null mice expressing human tau, improving dopamine metabolism and reducing oxidative stress.
BudsByMail Canada offers THC vape pens like cannabis that may help improve tremors.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease involves the formation of senile plaques from β-amyloid (Aβ) proteins and neurofibrillary tangles from tau proteins. These processes, once initiated, are irreversible.
CBD serves as a protective antioxidant for the brain, effectively interacting with NMDA receptors. It fights Alzheimer’s by halting Aβ plaque formation, reducing harmful ROS production, and preventing damage to fats in neurons exposed to Aβ.
In a study, patients received THC-predominant and CBD-predominant treatments, primarily through tinctures and confections, leading to reduced dependency on neuroleptic drugs, alleviated agitation, enhanced appetite, improved sleep quality, and better mood.
Cannabis components show potential in addressing various symptoms associated with this complex disorder:
- Agitation may find relief with THC, CBD, and linalool.
- Psychotic symptoms may benefit from CBD.
- THC and linalool may alleviate insomnia and restlessness.
- THC is indicated for anorexia, while THC, CBD, and linalool may help with aggression.
- THC, limonene, and CBD could assist in managing depression.
- THC and CBD are known for their pain-relieving properties.
- Alpha-pinene, alongside THC, is linked to memory enhancement.
- CBD and THC are associated with neuroprotection, while THC, CBD, and THCA may help reduce Aβ plaque formation.
Traumatic Brain Injury / Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy
Cannabis, particularly strains blending THC and CBD, can alleviate symptoms related to CTE, such as headache, nausea, insomnia, dizziness, agitation, substance abuse, and psychotic symptoms.
A study revealed that varying concentrations of THC and CBD help alleviate stress, agitation, depression, and anxiety—common emotional challenges in chronic traumatic encephalopathy cases. Cannabinoids also reduce glutamate excitotoxicity, leading to nerve cell damage after a traumatic brain injury.
Want to Use Cannabis for Your Current Condition?
Using cannabis is a widely accepted method to harness its benefits. If you want to avoid potential health risks associated with traditional methods, cannabis vapes offer a viable alternative.
Weed vape pens feature a heating element that converts flower or concentrate into vapor. Online cannabis stores offer numerous options to help you find the best vape pen for your needs, based on type, including disposable vape pens, Sativa-dominant or Indica-dominant cartridges with high THC, or specific concentrates.
Weed Vape Pens Treat Your Condition
Neurological treatment for the conditions discussed requires significant progress. However, emerging methods like utilizing cannabis, including through a cannabis, show promise in treatment protocols. Research studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that cannabis, with its varying levels of THC, CBD, and other compounds, can interact with the ECS to help manage symptoms of these conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a dab pen provide the same experience as a vape pen?
A dab pen and a vape pen both vaporize cannabis concentrates but have different intensities and uses. Dab pens cater to solid concentrates like wax and deliver a more intense effect, while vape pens utilize liquid concentrates, offering a milder, more controlled experience.
Are THC pens cheap?
The average cost of a cannabis pen is about $50, with options ranging from $20 to $200 or more. Pricing varies based on battery life and features.
Can my current medication interact with the active ingredient in my cannabis vape?
Interactions depend on your prescription. For instance, if you’re taking anti-depressants while managing Parkinson’s disease, cannabis might lead to excess serotonin, increasing dependence on these medications, potentially exacerbating depression and anxiety. It’s advisable to consult your doctor before adding cannabis to your regimen.
Are cannabis pens the best alternative when treating health issues with cannabis?
Weed pens offer a cleaner way to consume cannabis without the smoke from combustion, making them popular for individuals seeking a less harmful and more discreet option for managing health issues like pain and anxiety.
However, whether cannabis pens are the best choice varies among individuals. As we continue to learn about their long-term effects, it is essential for anyone considering them for health reasons to consult a doctor first to ensure they are selecting the best approach for their health needs.
Related Articles:
“`
