When it comes to eye health, emerging research points to a surprising ally against age-related macular degeneration (AMD): cannabis. According to an article from the Canadian Association of Optometrists, AMD is the leading cause of blindness among older adults (aged 50+).
However, recent studies suggest that compounds found in cannabis may offer protective benefits for the eyes. This revelation is sparking interest not only in medical circles but also among consumers seeking alternative therapies.
As discussions around weed expand, the role of a reputable weed dispensary becomes pivotal in providing access to potential treatments. Understanding these findings could reshape approaches to managing AMD, offering new hope for preserving crucial vision in aging populations.
Age-Related Macular Degeneration and its Symptoms
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) primarily affects the macula, a critical area at the center of the retina responsible for detailed vision necessary for activities like reading and recognizing faces. This condition progresses due to the buildup of waste products in the macula, leading to its gradual deterioration over time.
AMD progresses differently in individuals, with some experiencing slow degeneration while others face rapid decline. Doing routine eye exams is important for early detection and management.
So, What are the Symptoms?
AMD is characterized by progressive symptoms that worsen as the disease advances.
| Early Stages | May be asymptomatic and only detectable through comprehensive eye exams |
| During Progress | Common signs include blurred central vision, especially noticeable during tasks requiring detailed sight, such as reading. Corrective lenses cannot alleviate this blurred spot |
| Intermediate Stages | The blurred area may expand, affecting daily activities such as driving |
| Advanced Stages | There is complete loss of central detailed vision. AMD does not cause physical pain |
Other symptoms include:
- Distorted or wavy appearance of straight lines
- Dark spots
- Gaps in the field of vision
The Link Between AMD and Cannabis
Cannabis works by influencing the endocannabinoid system, a network of chemicals and receptors present throughout the body. While the body naturally produces cannabinoids, weed can further improve the generation of these compounds.
When you consume weed products from a reputable cannabis store or purchase them through same-day cannabis delivery, the plant-derived cannabinoids interact with the body’s receptors, found in areas such as:
- Brain
- Skin
- Stomach
- Salivary glands
Notably, endocannabinoid receptors are also present in the eye, which indicates the potential for cannabis to impact AMD symptoms. Given the wide range of effects cannabis can have, it became essential to source high-quality cannabis products.
Cannabis for AMD: What the Study Suggests
A UK Biobank data was used to analyze AMD and cannabis. The study involved AMD patients with their cannabis smoking details. Weed use was recorded with the participants detailing the type of weed used.
What the Results Imply?
Drusen, deposits of lipids, proteins, and cellular debris, accumulate in Bruch’s membrane, limiting transport between the retinal pigment epithelium and the vasculature, triggering an inflammatory reaction.
- People who reported using hemp more than 100 times in their lives were significantly less likely to develop AMD compared to those who had never used weed.
- Daily hemp users were also less likely to develop AMD than those who used it less than once a month.
These findings suggest that cannabis use through local weed dispensaries in Canada might influence the onset of AMD. The community, especially in British Columbia, continues to investigate the implications of hemp use on health conditions like AMD.
THC vs CBD for Alleviating AMD
Research is still ongoing on whether CBD or THC is better for treating age-related macular degeneration (AMD). However, both cannabinoids offer potential benefits, though they work in different ways.
CBD (Cannabidiol) for Macular Degeneration
A 2022 study highlighted CBD’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which sparked interest in its therapeutic potential. Researchers found that CBD’s therapeutic properties can help treat age-related macular degeneration.
Purchasing cannabis products, like CBD tinctures or cannabis topicals, from a local dispensary or through same-day cannabis delivery in Vancouver allows customers to explore its benefits.
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) for AMD
While research on THC’s impact on AMD is still under investigation, there are some potential benefits worth considering. Here are a few ways THC might be beneficial for AMD:
- THC’s anti-inflammatory properties could help reduce the inflammation associated with AMD, potentially slowing its progression.
- Although AMD itself does not cause pain, individuals with AMD may experience discomfort or pain from related eye conditions. THC is well-known for its pain-relieving properties, which can help alleviate discomfort from associated conditions.
- Some studies suggest that THC has neuroprotective effects, which might help protect the retinal cells from damage, potentially slowing the progression of AMD.
- THC can help improve blood flow and circulation, which might benefit the overall health of the eye and retina.
Top CBD Products for AMD
| Product | Strain | Category | CBD Content | Price |
| WYLD STRAWBERRY 20:1 SOFT CHEWS | Hybrid | Edible | 200mg per pack | $13 (10 pcs) |
| CBD CAPSULES | Capsule | 42.50-57.50mg per capsule | $30 (30 capsules) | |
| CBD REIGN DROPS | Blend | Oil | 13.50-16.50mg per ml | $20 (30ml) |
| DURGA MATA II CBD | Indica | Pre-Roll | 110-140mg per gram | $16 (3×0.5g) |
| TROPICAL CITRUS | Hybrid | Beverage | 5.10-6.90mg | $9 (350ml) |
| PURE SUN CBD | Hybrid | Flower | 140-200mg per gram | $28.80 (3.5g) |
| ORANGE CKS 1:1 VAPE CARTRIDGE | Sativa | Vape | 390-420mg per gram | $37 (1g) |
| BLUE DREAM BATH BOMB CBD | Blend | Topical | 42.50-57.50mg | $17 (130g) |
Improve Eye Health with Premium CBD Products
After the legalization, more and more research is ongoing about the therapeutic effects of hemp plants. The cannabis community remains hopeful for new discoveries in weed’s potential applications.
But regardless of your purpose – recreational or medicinal – it’s recommended to source hemp from a shop with a great selection of products.
Whether you want to visit a cannabis store in Vancouver or browse an online store to purchase non-medical cannabis, Vancouver’s Sea to Sky Cannabis Dispensary is your one-stop shop for improving your cannabis journey in Canada.
We sell and carry different products, from live resins to cannabis drinks, topicals, hash, and other carefully curated selections. Visit our store or page and discover the benefits cannabis can offer.
Find your favorite strains at Sea to Sky Cannabis, the cannabis store near me with a passion for excellence.
Frequently asked questions
Does CBD smoke more effective for AMD than edibles and concentrates?
Determining whether smoking CBD is more effective for (AMD) compared to edibles and concentrates involves considering how each method impacts the body.
When you smoke CBD, the cannabinoids quickly enter the bloodstream through the lungs, which provides fast relief. This might be advantageous for those seeking immediate effects.
Should I talk about using hemp in my healthcare community?
It’s important to inform your healthcare community if you use CBD, whether for medical or recreational purposes, as well as any over-the-counter drugs and supplements. CBD interacts with certain medications, potentially altering their effects.
By disclosing your CBD use, clinicians can better determine if any symptoms you experience are side effects of CBD or your medication.
Are there types of AMD that CBD can treat?
Yes, there are two types of AMD: wet and dry.
- Dry AMD is the most common, making up 90% of all cases. It involves the gradual degeneration of the central macular tissue, progressing slowly over time. Dry AMD can progress to wet AMD at any stage.
- Wet AMD, accounting for 10% of cases, is less common. It is characterized by leakage and bleeding from fragile blood vessels under the macula, and its symptoms can advance rapidly.
How does weed impact eye health aside from alleviating AMD?
Weed can impact eye health in various ways beyond potentially treating AMD, including:
- Glaucoma: Marijuana, particularly THC, has been shown to reduce intraocular pressure, which is beneficial for managing glaucoma—a condition characterized by increased pressure within the eye.
- Dry Eyes: Some cannabinoids, such as CBD, have moisturizing properties that may help alleviate symptoms of dry eyes by promoting tear production.
- Inflammation: Cannabinoids like CBD possess anti-inflammatory properties that could potentially reduce inflammation associated with various eye conditions, including conjunctivitis.
- Pain Management: THC’s analgesic properties can help manage pain associated with certain eye conditions or eye surgeries.
