Cannabis has long been explored for its therapeutic benefits, especially in neurology. Introduced in Western medicine in 1830 by William O’Shaughnessy, an Irish physician famous for his scientific work in pharmacology and chemistry, it was used for conditions like epilepsy and pain. However, political (at the federal level) and quality control issues slowed its progress.
Today, modern research supports its effectiveness for migraines, neuropathic pain, and multiple sclerosis. Cannabis-based treatments, like Sativex, have gained approval in many countries. Despite some setbacks, there is growing optimism for its use in treating neurological conditions.
With ‘cannabis shops near me’ in British Columbia providing access to a curated selection of high-quality cannabis products, the potential for innovative treatments continues to expand. But what more should consumers expect? Let’s discuss more about medical cannabis with some expert insights.
Cannabis as Part of Brain Cancer Treatments
Cannabis has shown promising results in treating brain tumours, backed by scientific studies dating back to 1975, starting with the study of the Antineoplastic activity of cannabinoids. Ancient Egyptian Copts and Renaissance herbalists in Europe also recognized the therapeutic benefits of THC and CBD products.
What Do the Studies Suggest?
- THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) demonstrated pro-apoptotic (cancer cell-killing) effects in brain tumours like glioma.
- CBD (cannabidiol) helped shrink tumours in human glioma cells.
- In a Canadian study, two children with brain tumours saw total regression after using smoked hemp.
A Phase II trial involving 21 individuals with recurrent glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) showed significant improvement. Patients using a combination of tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol, and chemotherapy lived longer than those in the control group, with an 83% survival rate after one year.
Key Findings
- Tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol, combined with chemotherapy, can be highly effective in cancer treatment.
- THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) may improve brain cell health and reduce neurodegeneration in conditions like Huntington’s disease and epilepsy.
The potential of bud products like edibles and pre-rolls is vast. With more cannabis stores or weed stores offering products at good prices access, the future of bud in brain cancer treatments looks bright.
CBD and THC: Potential Solutions for Seizure Management
Since the 1960s, research has revealed the potent effects of hemp, particularly in managing seizures like Epilepsy. THC, CBD, and THCA—compounds found in dried cannabis—have demonstrated anticonvulsant properties.
Notable Studies
- Animal studies: Tetrahydrocannabinol showed a 100% reduction in seizures compared to conventional drugs like phenobarbital (Wallace et al., 2003).
- Human trials in Brazil: Cannabidiol emerged as a promising treatment due to its lack of psychoactive effects (Russo, 2017).
- Project CBD: Public awareness grew after the success of cannabidiol in treating Dravet syndrome (Maa and Figi, 2014).
- Phase III Trials: Phytocannabinoids significantly reduced seizures in Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut patients (Devinsky et al., 2017).
More recent research suggests that lower doses of cannabidiol, combined with trace amounts of Tetrahydrocannabinol and terpenoids like linalool, offer even more effective seizure management. As each cannabis store across Canada stocks a variety of medical and non-medical cannabis (or recreational cannabis) with weed delivery options, patients can easily access these beneficial treatments for seizures.
The Role of Marijuana in Alzheimer’s Disease
Recent studies suggest that THC and CBD could offer new hope for managing Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). As cannabis dispensaries in Vancouver, BC, continue to provide high-quality BC bud, weed’s potential in treating AD is becoming more relevant.
Alzheimer’s Disease Overview
- AD is a neurodegenerative disease caused by the formation of beta-amyloid plaques and tau protein tangles in the brain.
- This leads to progressive brain cell damage, resulting in cognitive decline and dementia.
- Factors like head trauma, diabetes, obesity, and poor diet increase the risk of AD. Mediterranean diet, physical activity, and good sleep reduce the disease.
Hemp Potential for AD
- Tetrahydrocannabinol has been found to inhibit acetylcholinesterase, increasing neurotransmitter levels and preventing the aggregation of beta-amyloid plaques.
- Cannabidiol demonstrates neuroprotective effects by limiting oxidative stress and inflammation, key factors in AD progression.
Weed Components and Their Benefits for AD
- Agitation: THC, CBD, linalool
- Memory support: THC, alpha-pinene
- Neuroprotection: CBD, THC
- Reduced beta-amyloid plaque formation: THC, CBD, THCA
Weed for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE)
Cannabinoids offer neuroprotective benefits by reducing brain damage caused by glutamate excitotoxicity, a process that leads to neuron death after a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Marijuana has also been helpful in treating symptoms of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), including headache, nausea, insomnia, dizziness, and agitation. CTE, often linked to repetitive head injuries in contact sports like football, shows symptoms like:
- Dementia
- Personality changes
- Attention problems
A recent study found 87% of autopsied football players had CTE, with tau protein tangles in their brains. While CTE was previously diagnosed only after death, new research shows promise for pre-mortem identification using biomarkers like CCL11 protein and PET scans.
Given the neuroprotective properties of marijuana, particularly non-psychoactive cannabinoids, there’s growing support for its use in CTE treatment and prevention.
Weed for Parkinson’s Disease: Benefits, Studies, and Insights
Early research on marijuana and Parkinson’s Disease (PD) dates back to 1888, when Sir William Richard Gowers FRS, a British neurologist, noted the positive effects of “Indian hemp” on Parkinsonian symptoms. Given the concentration of cannabinoid receptors in the brain’s basal ganglia, researchers have explored marijuana for PD with varying results.
For instance, an oral tetrahydrocannabinol extract did not show significant improvements for dyskinesia, but non-psychoactive cannabinoids alone proved helpful in patients experiencing psychosis and sleep disorders. In recent studies, patients who use weed products like single pre-rolls from a reliable cannabis dispensary show some notable results, including:
- Improvements in tremor, rigidity, and bradykinesia after using weed.
- Better mood and sleep.
- Surveys indicate that long-term use can enhance overall function in PD patients with minimal side effects.
Research continues, and marijuana may help reduce neurofibrillary tangles in PD, a common feature shared with Alzheimer’s Disease, hinting at its potential to improve dopamine metabolism and reduce anxiety. This growing product knowledge highlights the potential of marijuana in managing PD symptoms.
Other Neurological Conditions Treated with Weed-Based Treatments
| Condition | Evidence Type | Treatment Used |
| MS (Multiple Sclerosis) Spacity | RCTs (Phase 3) | Nabiximols |
| Chronic Pain | RCTs (Phase 2) |
Nabiximols, THC |
| Positive & Negative Symptoms of Schizophrenia | Cannabidiol | |
| LUTS (Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms) | Nabiximols | |
| Glaucoma | Tetrahydrocannabinol | |
| Social Anxiety | Observational Studies, RCTs (Phase 2) | Cannabidiol |
| Tourette Syndrome | Tetrahydrocannabinol | |
| Dementia (with agitation) | Observational Studies | Tetrahydrocannabinol |
| Sleep Disturbance | RCTs (Phase 2-3) | Nabilone, Nabiximols, THC |
Weed as Part of Future Trends in Neurology
Many experts believe that neurology is encountering significant obstacles in treatment. The conventional approach of targeting single receptors with medications has not been universally effective for complex neurodegenerative conditions. Instead, revisiting older, proven methods that utilize the combined effects of botanical compounds could pave the way for more effective treatments.
These approaches hold promise for improved management of conditions such as epilepsy, tumours, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and traumatic brain injuries. Using plant extracts that include THC, CBD, THCA, CBDA, and specific terpenoids has shown the potential to enhance therapeutic outcomes.
Here’s a great selection of weed products:
| Form | Product | Content (THC-CBD) | Strain |
| Capsules | THC 10 Softgels | 10 Pack | 100mg | 1mg | Blend |
| Edible | Wild Berry Blaze Soft Chews | 10mg | 40mg | Hybrid |
| Flower | Mellow Man | 260-320mg | 0-20mg | Indica |
| Beverage | Mango Shot | 10mg | 1mg | Sativa |
| Pre-roll | Death Star | 300-370mg | 0-10mg | Indica |
| Vape | Pineapple Paradise 510 Thread Cartridge | 900-930mg | 0-100mg | Sativa |
While concerns about the psychoactive effects of tetrahydrocannabinol are valid, research, including randomized controlled trials of nabiximols, indicates that botanical-based treatments, especially those incorporating CBD and various terpenoids, could offer safe and effective solutions for challenging neurological disorders.
Now is the Best Time to Buy Weed
Exciting advances in marijuana-based therapies are transforming neurology, offering new hope for brain cancer, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease. Modern research supports the use of weed compounds in managing symptoms and improving patient outcomes.
Sea to Sky, the best weed dispensary, offers a wide selection of premium products. Order online for easy delivery right to your door. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to benefit from these innovative treatments. Buy cannabis now and experience the potential improvements in your health and well-being.
Frequently asked questions
How do cannabinoids work pharmacologically?
Two main receptors in the endocannabinoid system are activated: cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) and type 2 (CB2). This system is a complex network of organs throughout the body that expresses these receptors and maintains balance and stability within the body.
Can cannabidiol help fight acne?
Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties may help in the battle against acne. Research suggests that CBD acts as a sebostatic agent, regulating oil production in the skin. Additionally, it can inhibit the growth of Propionibacterium acnes, a bacterium associated with acne, and reduce inflammation related to acne.
Studies also indicate that terpenoids such as limonene and linalool, along with cannabidiol, can significantly suppress P. acnes and the production of inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α. This combination of effects suggests that cannabidiol could be valuable in acne treatment strategies.
How does marijuana impact the microbiome and weight?
Research shows that marijuana can influence the microbiome and weight in various ways. For example, the oral administration of Lactobacillus acidophilus can increase the expression of the CB2 receptor gene, which is linked to the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This effect enhances morphine’s pain-relieving properties, though CB2 antagonists can block it.
Additionally, tetrahydrocannabinol has been found to alter the microbiome balance in obese mice and prevent weight gain despite a high-fat diet. These findings suggest that weed may play a role in regulating both microbiome health and body weight, challenging some common stereotypes about its effects.
