Benefits of Medical Marijuana for Mental Health
The use of weed for mental health treatment has a long and much-discussed history. While the research is not definite or conclusive quite yet, there have been plenty of observed benefits of medical marijuana for mental health patients seeking alternative treatments. However, it is still recommended that you seek a medical professional for your specific case before starting any type of treatment.
Medical Marijuana and Mental Health
Despite the fact that the scientific studies on the relationship between weed and mental health are at very early stages, an increasing number of people with mental disorders have reported that medical marijuana has helped improve their symptoms. The studies are partially focused on the potential benefits of the natural interaction between the cannabinoids found in marijuana and the large endocannabinoid system responsible for regulating a variety of neural functions.
Although medical marijuana is yet to be globally embraced for official pharmacological use, the existing therapy methods have been notably promising. For instance, its positive effects on PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) are already widely noted. PTSD is a mental health disorder that is typically triggered by a traumatic event. It may gradually deteriorate the mental health of the patient and lead to severe depression, self-harm, and even suicide. The brain chemistry involved in processing medical marijuana regulates the therapeutic benefits and helps alleviate other debilitating symptoms linked to mental disorders.
The benefits of medical marijuana reach even further and have a wide range of uses and applications for mental health. It is useful in providing relief for patients with more widespread disorders inhibiting social life as well as academic and professional pursuits, such as ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and social anxiety disorder. Patients who use weed as a supplement in coping with disorders and conditions that affect mental health show significant improvements in negative symptoms.
Marijuana comes in many varieties, with some products being calming and relaxing in nature, while others might be more stimulating and induce a state of higher awareness. The availability of such diverse options is a big advantage in using medical marijuana for mental health. Further progress is being made to discover just how effective these benefits are in treating patients. Over the past few years, many health professionals have seen an increase in mental disorders. Having new treatments available can help a wider range of patients manage their symptoms and give them a better overall quality of life. With a diverse range of benefits, medical marijuana is a unique option for treating both mental and physical health conditions. If scientific research and studies eventually give medical professionals the green light to use weed with patients more regularly, it might define the next era of modern medicine and mental health.
Other Important Factors to Keep in Mind
Find the Right Strain
Once you decide on medical marijuana as your treatment method, it makes sense to try and find the right strain that will give you the most mental health benefits. The chemical composition, growing technique, and biological specifications of the plant all have a say in the potential effect of each strain. There is a diverse range of different marijuana strains with different benefits and qualities. As the information on their specifications is increasingly available, you can freely browse and find the right strain for your specific needs.
Try Out Terpenes
Make use of terpenes, the aromatic compounds that give cannabis strains their own distinctive fragrance. These natural and highly fragrant products can alter moods and create a soothing effect thanks to their captivating scents. Terpenes are as diverse as the cannabis strain themselves. In addition, many types of terpenes present in cannabis can also be found in other plants since these compounds play an important role in pollination and repelling predators. For instance, alpha-pinene, a terpene found in natural herbs like rosemary, sage, and basil, is known to aid in memory functions and has anti-inflammatory effects. Limonene, which is present in citrus plants, has antifungal and antibacterial properties and is used for its fresh citrusy smell in cosmetic products.
The therapeutic qualities of terpenes are increasingly used by patients seeking relaxation and relief with totally natural and organic compounds instead of being exposed to industrial chemicals. In short, terpenes are yet another way that weed helps patients avoid the many side effects and artificial chemicals of common mental health medication.
Play with Different Cannabinoid Concentrations
One of the most common questions from patients is whether they should choose products high in CBD or THC concentrations, which are the two main compounds of cannabis known as cannabinoids. They are also responsible for the diverse effects coveted by those seeking new treatment methods for mental health. THC is mostly linked to the psychoactive, mind-altering high provided by marijuana whereas CBD is associated with physical relaxation and substantial effects on the nervous system. As cannabis has a variety of effects, people seek it out for a variety of reasons. People who enjoy and benefit from its mind stimulating qualities might be more inclined to pick up a product higher in THC, whereas others who simply enjoy the muscle relaxing and pain-relieving properties of marijuana might go with high-CBD products. The availability of information on the cannabinoid concentrations of strains offers endless personalized options for patients.
How Can Ozark MMJ Cards Help?
Get certified and start enjoying medical marijuana benefits for mental health. Get your written certification from a qualified physician and consult Ozark MMJ Cards to start your process to receive your card certification.