Buzz
The United States is gradually warming up to the notion of decriminalizing marijuana. Numerous states have already authorized its controlled distribution for medical or recreational purposes, or even both. While federal law still prohibits its use, possession, sale, cultivation, or transportation in other regions, the era of widespread 'Reefer Madness!' hysteria is far behind us.
What has led to this shift in perspective?
Several factors contribute to this change. A significant reason is the growing evidence of marijuana's notable health advantages. However, it might seem unlikely that other illegal substances could offer any benefits. Surprisingly, nearly all major controlled substances have legitimate and beneficial uses in various contexts.
Here’s a look at 10 illegal street drugs that boast unexpected and valuable medical uses.
10. Cannabis
Whether you call it pot, weed, marijuana, grass, bud, or herb, humans have been drying and smoking cannabis plants for thousands of years. Known as one of the milder and less harmful substances, many people have experimented with it at least once. Statistics show that approximately 3.8% of the global population uses it regularly.
Medical marijuana is now legal in 26 US states, the District of Columbia, and Guam, highlighting its numerous health benefits. The key lies in cannabinoids, which are abundant in cannabis. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the primary cannabinoid, is a powerful pain reliever. Interestingly, the human body naturally produces small amounts of cannabinoids to manage pain.
Another cannabinoid found in cannabis, CBC (cannabichromene), has shown effectiveness in treating epilepsy. Additionally, cannabis can alleviate inflammation, combat multiple sclerosis, reduce spasms, ease bladder issues, and even mitigate nausea caused by chemotherapy.
In summary, cannabis is a highly beneficial plant with proven medical applications.
9. Cocaine
For many, the mention of cocaine conjures images of 1970s disco scenes, where high-society individuals indulged in nearly pure Colombian powder. However, there’s a lesser-known, often misunderstood side to this substance.
In the past, cocaine was celebrated as a miracle drug, used to treat ailments like motion sickness, hay fever, alcoholism, and even as a laxative. However, its addictive nature led to the search for safer alternatives.
Despite its risks, cocaine hasn’t been entirely discarded by the medical field. Today, it’s still utilized by healthcare professionals, particularly in surgeries involving the eyes, nose, and throat, where its anesthetic properties in paste form prove invaluable.
8. MDMA
Crystallized MDMA has shown potential in treating post–traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, researchers caution against self-medicating with ecstasy, as clinical settings are essential for safe and effective use.
In controlled studies, MDMA increases serotonin levels, helping patients feel calmer and more connected to their therapists. This enhanced emotional openness facilitates more effective therapy sessions, benefiting both patients and practitioners.
MDMA reduces feelings of fear and stress, allowing patients to address traumatic memories without the emotional overwhelm. This enables them to explore the root causes of their issues without the risk of retraumatization.
7. Crystal Meth
Struggling to focus at work, drifting into daydreaming, fidgeting, or feeling constantly distracted could indicate attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). While your doctor won’t likely suggest buying crystal meth in a parking lot, there’s an intriguing connection worth noting.
When prescribed in controlled doses (never attempt self-medication), stimulants like meth can balance brain chemicals such as dopamine and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters play a crucial role in managing addictive tendencies and impulsive behaviors.
We’re not advocating for illegal activities like cooking meth in an RV, but meth has been used medically to address obesity. Rapid weight loss programs sometimes include Desoxyn, a pharmaceutical form of methamphetamine, to aid in weight management.
6. Magic Mushrooms
Magic mushrooms are famous for inducing hours of vivid hallucinations, like watching walls transform into kaleidoscopic patterns or losing track of South Park episodes. However, they also offer a range of practical benefits beyond recreational use.
The active compound in mushrooms, psilocybin, has shown promise in treating obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD), according to researchers at the University of Arizona.
These mushrooms are also effective in reducing the intensity of severe cluster headaches. Many individuals worldwide risk legal consequences by using shrooms to manage debilitating pain, as they not only alleviate discomfort but also extend the time between headache episodes.
5. Ketamine
While ketamine is known as a party drug to some, veterinarians use it as a tranquilizer for horses. Its potential to treat depression might not come as a surprise, given its calming effects. However, ketamine’s antidepressant properties go far beyond sedation.
Research from Yale University reveals that ketamine doesn’t just ease depressive symptoms—it repairs brain damage caused by chronic stress, trauma, and depression by reconnecting synapses. A single dose can take effect within hours and provide relief for up to 10 days. No wonder horses always seem so content.
4. Mescaline
Popularized by Hunter S. Thompson’s Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, mescaline is a phenethylamine found in specific cacti. It’s the main psychedelic compound in peyote, used by the Navajo tribe and celebrated by figures like The Doors’ frontman. Interestingly, it may also hold promise as a treatment for alcoholism.
In many Native American tribes, hallucinogens like mescaline and DMT have been linked to addiction—not as substances to become addicted to, but as tools to combat addiction to other drugs. While scientific research on these substances is limited, early findings support this traditional use.
Alcoholism is a significant problem in Native American communities, with addiction rates double those of other ethnic groups. However, members of the Native American Church, which incorporates peyote use, exhibit remarkably low rates of alcoholism. Studies suggest that small, controlled doses over weeks can reduce cravings in alcohol addicts.
The concept of “psychedelic therapy” remains controversial, but the evidence supporting its effectiveness, while not definitive, extends beyond mere anecdotes.
3. GHB
The controversy surrounding gammahydroxybutyrate (GHB) stems from its dual nature. While it induces a euphoric high and profound relaxation when used recreationally, its depressant effects have also made it a tool in date rapes and even murders, such as those committed by British serial killer Stephen Port, who used lethal doses of the drug.
Despite its misuse by violent criminals, GHB, a naturally occurring psychoactive substance, is highly effective in treating insomnia. Its narcoleptic properties are incredibly beneficial, though its potential for abuse remains a significant concern.
2. Heroin
No one needs a reminder that heroin is dangerous—films like Trainspotting and books like William S. Burroughs’s Junkie have made that clear. However, as a painkiller, it remains unparalleled in effectiveness.
While heroin is banned in US hospitals, it’s still used medically in the UK, even administered to pregnant women for pain management.
To avoid alarming expectant mothers, heroin is referred to as “diamorphine” in medical settings. Administered intravenously, it effectively alleviates severe pain and stress. While it may slightly prolong labor, it poses minimal risks, as a single dose doesn’t lead to addiction or harm the body.
1. LSD
Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) has practical applications beyond enhancing music experiences, such as at a Grateful Dead concert. Research at Maryland’s Spring Grove State Hospital demonstrated that controlled LSD doses significantly eased death-related anxiety in terminal cancer patients.
Among the study participants, one-third reported feeling “significantly less anxious” about their condition, another third felt more at peace with their fate, and the remaining third experienced no worsening of their emotional state.
