Medical Cannabis (मेडिकल कैनबिस): Your Health Guide

The medical world is looking deeper into what cannabis can do. A key finding is the potential of cannabis oil, CBD, or hash oil. It's showing promise in many health areas, yet its use is limited1. Research and interest in medical cannabis are growing fast. It seems like it might help with cancer, skin issues, diabetes, and many more ills1.

This guide is here to introduce you to medical cannabis. We'll look at how it works and what it's good for in India. You'll learn everything you need to know to consider using it for your health.

Key Takeaways

• Cannabis oil and its extracts are being extensively studied for their therapeutic potential in treating various medical conditions.

• The usage of cannabis for medical purposes is currently limited, but there is a growing trend in the research and application of medical cannabis.

• Medical cannabis has shown promising results in managing conditions like cancer, skin disorders, diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and neurological issues.

• Cannabis oil can be produced at home using different extraction methods, such as alcohol or olive oil.

• This guide provides comprehensive information on the medical uses, benefits, and safety considerations of cannabis in India.

Introduction to Medical Cannabis

Medical cannabis is the use of parts from the cannabis plant for health reasons2. It isn't just about getting people high. The plant has more than 100 compounds known as cannabinoids. The main ones are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD)2. These have been shown to help with different medical issues.

What is Medical Cannabis?

There are different kinds of the cannabis plant. They're called Cannabis sativa, C. indica, and C. ruderalis2. It's believed these plants came from Asia originally2. People have used cannabis for many things over the years. This includes making fiber, oils, and using it for medicine and fun2.

History of Medical Cannabis

Using cannabis for health reasons goes back thousands of years. In places like China and India, people have used it in traditional medicine2. In the 19th century, it became popular in the West. Doctors would give it for pain and muscle issues2. But, in 20th century, its use was largely banned2. Now, many places are again allowing its medicinal use.

"The use of cannabis for medicinal purposes dates back thousands of years."

The International Association for Cannabinoid Medicines (IACM) started in 2000. Doctors from Germany, Switzerland, and Austria began it4. It's become a big group for studying cannabis in medicine. They share news in the IACM-Bulletin, which people in many countries read4.

In 2019, the IACM worked alongside the journal Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research4. They've had meetings about cannabis since 2001. The number of people attending from around the world has grown a lot4. Some really famous scientists are part of the group4.

The IACM wants to share the latest true facts about cannabis medicine. They talk with patients too. The group also works with other organizations, like the one in France, to help patients4. They started a special network to offer support all over the world4.

People who use cannabis medicine have been part of the IACM from the start. People like Clare Hodges and Michael Krawitz help represent patients4.

Medical Cannabis and Pain Management

Medical cannabis is well-known for helping with chronic pain. It's been proven to work, especially for pain from issues like neuropathy, fibromyalgia, and multiple sclerosis5. The way cannabis helps with pain is by affecting a system in our bodies that controls pain and swelling.

Cannabis for Chronic Pain

For chronic pain, cannabis has been promising. Around 30% of cannabis users might get addicted, says the6 CDC. Despite this, it is scientifically supported for treating chronic pain and a few other health issues6.

The four main conditions it's recommended for are chronic pain, muscle spasms from MS, sickness from chemo, and some severe types of epilepsy. This is based on solid scientific findings.

Cannabis for Neuropathic Pain

Cannabis is also good for nerve pain. Studies show that CBD, which comes from cannabis, can help with pain from diseases like MS, HIV, and diabetes5. Its anti-swelling and nerve system effects are thought to help the most.

Using cannabis for pain is still being studied. Results look good, especially for chronic and nerve pain7. But, with changing laws, it's key to keep up-to-date on using medical cannabis safely.

Medical Cannabis and Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a long-lasting condition that attacks the central nervous system. This causes issues like muscle tightness, pain, and shakes. Medical cannabis is being looked into as a possible treatment for those with MS. Results have shown that medicines made from cannabis (like Sativex) can help with muscle tightness, make it easier to move, and lessen pain for MS patients. Cannabis also shows promise in slowing disease development.

Muscle spasms are common and can happen to anyone. They might be from working hard in the heat, using muscles too much, or not stretching enough. This issue can also be due to other health conditions, though. Professionals in Ayurveda and medicine recommend cannabis as a good way to tackle muscle spasms. A specific study showed that a mix of THC and CBD from cannabis reduced muscle tightness and lessened inflammation in the nerves9.

A study at the University of Rochester found that over 77% of MS patients said medical cannabis helped them with muscle tightness and pain. They also said it made their lives better, and they needed less of their usual drugs. Medical cannabis seems to also help muscles recover well after strain by reducing pain and inflammation, and stopping oxidative stress brought on by exercise. This leads to better muscle health9.

Research backs up the idea that medical cannabis is good at lessening muscle tightness without the side effects of regular drugs. The plant's anti-inflammatory and nerve-protecting abilities might also slow down disease worsening8.

"Over 77% of patients with Multiple Sclerosis found medical cannabis helpful for symptomatic spasticity and pain management."

In short, medical cannabis appears very hopeful in treating the tough symptoms of MS, such as muscle tightness, pain, and shakes. Drugs like Sativex seem to make life better for MS patients by easing movement and making them hurt less. The plant's anti-inflammatory and nerve-protecting properties could also be key in slowing down MS89.

Key Findings	Details
Effectiveness of cannabis-based medicines for MS	Studies have shown that cannabis-based medicines, such as Sativex, can effectively alleviate spasticity, improve mobility, and reduce pain in patients with MS89.
Anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties of cannabis	The anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties of cannabis may help in slowing the progression of MS8.
Patient-reported benefits of medical cannabis for MS	Over 77% of patients with Multiple Sclerosis found medical cannabis helpful for symptomatic spasticity and pain management, and reported an improved quality of life9.
Cannabis for muscle recovery in MS	Medical cannabis has been found to aid muscle recovery by alleviating pain, muscular inflammation, and exercise-induced oxidative stress, leading to improved muscle function9.

Medical Cannabis for Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting

Medical cannabis is known for helping with nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy10. Studies show that cannabis, mainly its THC, can lessen these tough side effects of cancer treatment10. Medicines like dronabinol and nabilone, made from cannabis, are allowed in some places for this use. They offer a different choice than usual medicines for sickness10.

THC, the main active part of cannabis, is very good at easing nausea and vomiting linked to chemotherapy10. Other parts, like CBD, also show promise in helping with these issues. Using cannabis medicine for nausea is getting a lot of interest, mainly because it doesn't have many of the bad effects of regular sickness drugs10.

In the U.S., the FDA hasn't okayed cannabis for cancer or other sickness treatment10. But, it has approved drugs like dronabinol and nabilone to treat nausea and vomiting from chemo10. The rules about medical cannabis change from place to place in the U.S. More and more areas are letting people use it for different medical reasons, including helping with chemo side effects10.

The more we learn about how medical cannabis can help, the more it's used as part of cancer care. This approach might make people's lives better and healthier when they're going through chemo10.

"The use of medical cannabis as an anti-nausea treatment has gained significant attention as it can provide relief without the adverse effects commonly associated with traditional anti-emetic medications."

Medical Cannabis and Appetite Stimulation

Medical cannabis is showing great promise for those who find eating hard, especially with conditions like anorexia and wasting syndrome. It works by making you want to eat more, thanks to THC, a key part of cannabis11. Studies show that THC and similar substances can help you eat more and gain weight11.

The way our body deals with these substances plays a big part in making them work. This is why research is crucial11. If we can find ways to make these substances work better without being partially broken down first, they could be even more helpful11.

Cannabis is especially important for people with diseases like cancer or HIV, who may lose weight without meaning to. These conditions can really hurt a person's health and quality of life11. By helping them eat more and gain weight, medical cannabis can be a big aid11.

Cannabis for Anorexia and Wasting Syndrome

The Cannabis plant has lots of different compounds, including cannabinoids and terpenes12. THC and CBD are the most studied cannabinoids for their healing potential12. They might work even better together because of the entourage effect12.

But, too much THC and not enough CBD could be harmful, leading to possible psychosis12. The balance between THC and CBD is key for safe and helpful cannabis use12. The right mix, tailored to a person's needs, is crucial12.

People have been using cannabis as medicine since ancient times, starting from the 9th century BC. The Chinese were quick to see its value, and it's been used by many cultures for various purposes13. But, it's been illegal for the past 80 years, slowing down our study of its healing potential13.

Now, as we learn more about medical cannabis, its benefits for conditions like anorexia are clearer. By helping patients eat more, it can significantly improve their lives11. Adding medical cannabis to a treatment plan could be a key step in supporting those with severe weight loss and nutrition issues11.

Medical Cannabis (मेडिकल कैनबिस) and Epilepsy

Medical cannabis is sparking more interest in fighting epilepsy. Some elements of cannabis, like CBD, can ease seizures. They are showing promise in reducing how often and how bad the seizures are for people with epilepsy, even tough cases14. Studies highlight that medicines with CBD can help control seizures. This means a better life for some epilepsy patients15.

In India, the CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM) is leading the way in this research. They have gathered 500 types of cannabis for study and creating new medicines. With a special license, they can do even deeper research on the benefits of the plant14.

CSIR-IIIM and Indus Scan recently joined forces for more cannabis research. Their main goal is to find new ways to fight diseases like cancer and epilepsy14. This partnership is key in developing new and effective treatments14.

India is paying attention to the benefits of medical cannabis because of CSIR-IIIM's work. States like Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh have started to make rules for using this plant effectively14.

Internationally, more places are allowing medical use of cannabis, like the United States and Canada.

The market is growing fast. By 2028, the world could be spending $70.6 billion on legal cannabis16.

Medical cannabis offers hope for different health issues, not just epilepsy. It's been successful in controlling seizures and reducing pain from various conditions. Studies also show it can lower inflammation and help with addiction problems15.

CBD, a part of cannabis, offers hope for epilepsy for many who have not found relief. With the help of places like CSIR-IIIM and a global movement for its use, we are looking towards a hopeful future for epilepsy and other related issues.

Despite problems like limited banking, complex supply chains, and strict laws, the global cannabis market is expected to boom by 2028. This growth shows there are big chances for progress16. It's important for scientists, policy makers, and law enforcers to work together. Their united efforts will help provide safe and effective treatments to the people who need them the most.

Medical Cannabis and Movement Disorders

Medical cannabis is showing promise in treating movement disorders like Huntington's disease and Parkinson's disease17. These conditions cause a loss of muscle control over time. Researchers are increasingly interested in how cannabis might help.

Cannabis for Huntington's Disease

Huntington's disease weakens movement, thinking, and mental health over time. Scientists are looking into medical cannabis for this disease, especially a component called cannabidiol (CBD)17. Research points to CBD's potential to protect nerves and help with movement problems. It might even boost the life quality of those with Huntington's disease17. Plus, cannabis can fight inflammation and damage from harmful molecules, possibly slowing the disease.

Cannabis for Parkinson's Disease

In Parkinson's disease, patients face tremors and trouble moving. Medical marijuana is being studied for this condition as well17. Some findings suggest that both CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) could ease Parkinson's symptoms, help with sleep, and lessen medication side effects17. These compounds might shield nerves and reduce swelling, which could help delay the disease's advances.

Interest in using cannabis for these disorders is growing, but research is still young17. Few large studies have been done so far, meaning we need more evidence. Even so, the clues we have show promise for using medical cannabis with Huntington's and Parkinson's diseases17.

Condition	Potential Benefits of Medical Cannabis
Huntington's Disease	Alleviation of motor symptoms Improvement in overall quality of life Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that may slow disease progression
Parkinson's Disease	Alleviation of motor symptoms Improvement in sleep Reduction in the severity of levodopa-induced dyskinesia Neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects that may slow disease progression

As we learn more, using medical cannabis for these disorders might get more popular17. But, it's crucial to talk to doctors first and think about the risks and advantages very carefully17.

Medical Cannabis and Mental Health

The potential of medical cannabis in helping with mental conditions like anxiety and depression is getting more attention. Some compounds in cannabis, especially CBD, seem to have effects like easing anxiety and acting as an antidepressant in studies18. By working with the endocannabinoid system, which is key in controlling mood and emotions, cannabis could possibly reduce anxiety and depression symptoms and boost mental health overall18. But, it's vital to remember that using cannabis for mental health needs to be done carefully, with a doctor's help.

Cannabis for Anxiety and Depression

Some new studies suggest that medical cannabis might be a good choice for handling anxiety and depression18. These studies show that using cannabis-based treatments could lessen depression symptoms and enhance mental health18. However, it's key to know that how cannabis affects mental health can change from person to person and is influenced by the specific cannabis type or product19.

A study with 368 people showed that using mainly CBD linked to a big drop in depression symptoms18. But, a different group of 170 individuals showed no big change in depression or anxiety18. Another study in the U.S. found that medical cannabis users felt better in both their quality of life and how well they slept18.

Yet, using cannabis might also raise some mental health risks, like a higher chance of psychosis and other issues19. So, talking to a health professional before using cannabis for mental health is really important19.

To wrap up, using medical cannabis for anxiety and depression could be promising. But, it's crucial to use it safely and under a doctor's advice to get the best out of these cannabis products18. Working with healthcare experts lets people see if medical cannabis could help them, considering all the possible benefits and risks19.

Medical Cannabis and Glaucoma

Medical cannabis has long been used to treat glaucoma. Glaucoma is a disease that can damage the optic nerve and cause vision loss. Studies show that cannabis, especially THC, can lower the pressure inside the eye. This is why it's considered as a medical option for those with glaucoma20.

The effect of cannabis on eye pressure is not long-lasting. We still need more research to know if it's good for managing glaucoma in the long run20. Glaucoma is a major reason for blindness around the globe, second only to cataracts20. The most common type is POAG, particularly affecting people over 60 and those with African ancestry20.

High eye pressure is a big risk for glaucoma. This pressure often happens when the fluid inside the eye can't flow out properly. It can starve the optic nerve of nutrients, leading to its damage20. Current treatments for lowering eye pressure have proven better than cannabis-based ones20.

Studies say that cannabinoids can lower eye pressure as well as regular glaucoma drugs. However, they can make blood pressure drop, cause mental effects, and need to be taken many times a day20.

We might look into treatments that can protect or heal the optic nerve in glaucoma patients in the future20. There's interest in creating drugs that act like cannabinoids but don't lower eye pressure. Over time, we're aiming to find medications that are better and easier to use than cannabis for treating glaucoma20.

"Cannabis consists of more than 120 components known as cannabinoids."21

Using medical cannabis for glaucoma seems helpful. Yet, we must keep researching to know its real benefits and risks. Coming up with other drugs that work better might help reduce the need for cannabis in the future20.

Cannabis and Cardiovascular Health

Medical cannabis is being studied for its health benefits22. Some research shows it might help the heart by improving blood pressure, reducing inflammation, and maybe avoiding certain heart diseases22.

One key area is how the body's endocannabinoid system affects heart health22. This system helps control different body functions, including the heart. By targeting certain receptors, especially type 2, it could offer new ways to influence the immune system. This might help with some illnesses, like HIV-linked brain issues, sudden inflammatory responses, and even COVID-1922.

But, the link between using cannabis and heart health isn’t clear-cut and needs more study23. Some data connect cannabis with higher chances of lung cancer, heart attacks, and accidents while driving. These findings highlight the need to better understand how cannabis might affect the heart23.

Yet, the use of cannabis ingredients, mainly CBD, to treat heart issues is getting a lot of attention23.

For example, there's interest in using medicines like Sativex for multiple sclerosis symptoms and treating nerve pain. Also, cannabinoids may help boost appetite in people with illnesses such as cystic fibrosis23.

Researchers are continuously learning more about how cannabis affects the heart22. As this knowledge grows, the use of medical cannabis for heart health might become clearer. Still, being careful and doing thorough research is crucial towards any use of cannabis drugs for heart problems22.

"The relationship between cannabis use and cardiovascular health is complex, and further research is needed to fully understand the potential risks and benefits."

Safety and Legality of Medical Cannabis

Medical cannabis is being studied for helping with many medical issues. We must note its possible side effects and safety issues24. Some people might get a dry mouth, feel dizzy, tired, or find their thinking less clear25. The risks of long-term use and its interaction with some health problems, like heart or mental conditions, are not fully known25. So, talking to a doctor is really important to check if it's safe and right for you.

Side Effects of Medical Cannabis

Cannabis used for medical reasons might lead to several effects, including:

• Dry mouth

• Dizziness

• Fatigue

• Cognitive impairment

Knowing these effects and keeping track of how you feel are essential24. For moms-to-be and new moms, using cannabis can harm children. It may cause issues like acting out, trouble paying attention, and problems with thinking and speaking24.

Legal Status of Medical Cannabis in India

India has been discussing the legal use of medical cannabis26. The NDPS Act of India oversees growing, having, and using cannabis for health needs26. Though medical use is allowed, the rules are still being set26. Changes are being made to make medical cannabis more available, but it's complicated and changes from state to state in India.

26 Some countries, including parts of the U.S., have allowed using Vijaya, which is a cannabis-based medicine, for medical reasons26. In India, under the NDPS Act of 1985, the use of Vijaya's resins and flowers was restricted, except for its seeds and leaves26. In 2020, India supported removing Vijaya from strict drug control during a global meeting26. The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh later mentioned plans to let people grow and use it in a way that's controlled26. Then, in 2022, the Central Government made it clear that using Vijaya for medical purposes is allowed. State Governments are now in charge of how it's grown, made, and used.

"The legal landscape around medical cannabis in India continues to evolve, as the country explores the potential therapeutic benefits while addressing the complex regulatory and safety concerns."

Conclusion

Medical cannabis is showing great promise as a helpful treatment. It provides relief to many patients. This includes those with common health issues like pain and mental health conditions. A 2021 study in America showed that most patients found their chronic pain eased after using Vijaya. More than 95% also felt better from stress, anxiety, and depression.

Scientists are looking more into how medical cannabis helps. They're studying its effects on pain, brain issues, mental health, and increasing appetite28. A study found that women who used marijuana before sex were more likely to have a good time. Those who used it often had even better reactions28. Even though India is figuring out the laws around this medicine, its benefits are clear. And the world is more open to using it for health reasons. So, it could become a big part of India's healthcare in the future.

Looking for new ways to treat patients, both users and doctors are interested in medical cannabis29. There are more than 113 different plant chemicals in cannabis that can help with several health problems29. Research and making smart rules about medical cannabis are key. They help make sure it's used the right way in India.

FAQ

What is medical cannabis?

Medical cannabis is using parts of the cannabis plant for healing. It treats many health issues and eases symptoms. There are more than 100 cannabinoids in cannabis. The main ones are THC and CBD. They are known for their healing effects.

What are the medical applications of cannabis?

Cannabis is being studied for various health uses. These include managing pain, reducing muscle spams, and helping with MS. It also might help with sickness from chemo, make you eat more, and control seizures and mental health disorders.

What are the benefits of using medical cannabis?

Using medical cannabis may help with different health issues. It can relieve pain, reduce spasms, and help you eat more. It can also help with seizures, and lessen anxiety or depression.

What are the potential side effects of medical cannabis?

If you use medical cannabis, you might get a dry mouth or feel dizzy. You could also feel tired or have trouble thinking clearly. The long-term effects are not clear. People with certain health problems should be careful.

What is the legal status of medical cannabis in India?

In India, the NDPS Act allows cannabis for medicinal and research use. But, the rules are still developing. Each Indian state might have different laws about medical cannabis.

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