Top 5 Applications of Medical Cannabis

This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.

In recent years, alternative medicine has gained popularity as a way to address various ailments, from chronic pain to mental health issues. Practices like aromatherapy, acupuncture, and crystal healing have emerged as popular alternatives to conventional medical treatments. Among these, medicinal cannabis has also become a widely recognized option for alternative healing.

Since ancient times, particularly in Chinese medicine, this “magical” herb has been revered for its calming and mind-altering properties [Source: Guy, Whittle and Robson]. While recreational use remains prohibited in the U.S., its medicinal applications are gaining traction. As more states—currently 17, along with the District of Columbia—enact laws permitting medical cannabis [source: NORML], it is increasingly utilized to address these five prevalent conditions.

5: Nausea and Vomiting

Our bodies contain two types of receptors that enable the effects of medical cannabis: CB1 receptors, located mainly in the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral areas, and CB2 receptors, found in immune tissues [source: McCarberg, Bill M.D.]. When cannabis interacts with these receptors, it triggers the production of molecules known as endocannabinoids. These molecules bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors, creating a euphoric effect that alleviates various symptoms [source: McCarberg, Bill M.D.].

Medical cannabis is frequently used to alleviate nausea symptoms. According to trials by the National Cancer Institute, FDA-approved cannabis-derived medications, dronabinol and nabilone, effectively reduced nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy in cancer patients. When administered orally, these drugs "performed as well as or better than some less potent FDA-approved anti-nausea medications" [source: National Cancer Institute].

4: Loss of Appetite

Medicinal cannabis is also widely used to boost appetite. A clinical trial by the National Cancer Institute revealed that HIV/AIDS patients experiencing weight loss who took dronabinol (delta-9-THC) saw improved appetite and halted weight loss compared to those on a placebo. However, the study noted that dronabinol was less effective for advanced-stage cancer patients than conventional treatments [source: National Cancer Institute].

Research by the institute on healthy individuals showed that inhaling cannabis can increase calorie intake, particularly for sweet and fatty foods. Additionally, numerous animal studies have confirmed that cannabinoid inhalation stimulates greater food consumption [source: National Cancer Institute].

3: Muscle Tension and Spasm

Medical cannabis is also known for its ability to alleviate muscle tension. A 2004 study by the American Cancer Society found that multiple sclerosis (MS) patients who used a liquid cannabis extract containing THC and cannabidiol experienced reduced muscle spasms and tremors [source: American Cancer Society].

Research involving severely disabled MS patients showed that THC intake led to a reduction in tremors and muscle rigidity [source: National Multiple Sclerosis Society]. While all eight participants reported feeling a "high," two experienced mild discomfort and slight paranoia.

2: Pain

For years, cannabis has been believed to offer pain-relieving properties for individuals with chronic pain. People experiencing neuropathic pain—often resulting from conditions like alcoholism, amputations, spinal surgery, HIV, or MS—frequently seek relief through medicinal cannabis.

A 2010 study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal involved 21 participants, averaging 45 years old, who were tested with four cannabis strains of varying THC concentrations: 9.4%, 6%, 2.5%, and a placebo [source: Doheny, Kathleen]. Over two months, participants smoked a random strain three times daily for five days, unaware of the THC levels. After each period, they rated their pain. The 9.4% THC strain reduced average pain levels from 6.1 to 5.4. While the change was modest, the study highlighted that street-sold cannabis often contains 10% to 15% THC, potentially offering greater pain relief [source: Doheny, Kathleen].

1: Insomnia

Beyond its well-documented benefits of relaxation and pain relief, medicinal cannabis is also utilized to alleviate anxiety and sleep-related issues like insomnia. Research by the National Cancer Institute revealed that participants who inhaled marijuana experienced "enhanced mood, a greater sense of well-being, and reduced anxiety." Furthermore, patients using a cannabis plant extract spray (applied sublingually) reported improved sleep quality [source: National Cancer Institute].