Recently medical cannabis has garnered a lot of attention because of its popularity as an alternative treatment for several chronic pain conditions such as arthritis and migraine. For people battling with chronic pain, medical marijuana can be one of the safest and most effective treatment options and this is one of the foremost reasons encouraging people to visit their local marijuana store.
Does medical weed really help with chronic pain?
A study by NASEM corroborates the fact that cannabinoid compounds like CBD and THC can be extremely effectual in pain alleviation. According to the report, the natural cannabinoid receptors in the human body play an important role in keeping pain in check. There is a bunch of anecdotal evidence which supports that the medicinal use of marijuana for treating several kinds of chronic pain such as neuropathic pain, pain associated with multiple sclerosis, cancer or spasticity. A study on the effects of cannabinoids by the National Academies of Science came to the conclusion that chronic pain patients treated with cannabis generally experience a considerable lessening of the pain symptoms.
Why do some people still oppose medical marijuana for chronic pain?
The earliest evidence of the medicinal values of cannabis can be traced back to 2700 BC when Shen Nung, the then Emperor of China and the founder of Chinese medicine documented the pain alleviating properties of marijuana. Unfortunately, the present laws, restrictions, and stigma associated with pot smoking have forced a section of the doctors to go for a more conservative approach. This is why they prescribe a host of pharmaceutical medicines for pain management rather than prescribing marijuana even though they come with a range of side-effects.
Old-school physicians who grew up with the idea that “marijuana is bad’’ and who paid too much heed to the government propagandas are the ones who still refuse to explore the medical benefits associated with cannabis consumption. It needs to be stated in this context that opioid drugs which are the most common pain medication can have fatal consequences when abused while NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)increases the risk of strokes and heart attacks. Cannabis, on the other hand, is safe effective with much lesser side effects and zero chances of overdose or tolerance.
The best cannabis strains for pain management:
Now let’s take a quick look at some of the most popular marijuana strains for treating pain symptoms.
White Widow
One of the most popular strains for coping with chronic pain, White Widow has a high concentration of THC which helps to curb the inflammatory molecules, while its indica genes ease muscle tensions and induce a state of calm. Moreover, White Widow triggers a sense of motivation and euphoria encouraging the user to forget about their pain. If you are looking for an effective pain management strain without any sedative side-effect then don’t hesitate to go for this one.
Blue Dream
This cross between sativa haze and Blueberry indica is a sativa heavy strain that can be very helpful for patients of chronic pain. The full-body relaxation effect produced by Blue Dream leaves you with a feeling of tranquillity and doesn’t come with sedative effects.
ACDC
ACDC is one of the least psychoactive cannabis strains which can even be used by non-users. One of the most medicinal weed strains in the market, ACDC is a CBD heavy strain which has been specially created for people with serious medical conditions. With a THC: CBD ratio of 1:20, ACDC is all about healing with minor mood-altering effects like enhanced concentration and sociability.
AK-47
One of the most popular hybrid weed strains, this one is a favorite among patients of chronic pain. This sativa dominant strain is said to heighten the alertness of your mind followed by a mellow and relaxed feel. Ideal for day-time users, AK 47 can greatly reduce your symptoms without putting you to sleep.
Harlequin
Harlequin which has a CBD: THC ratio of 5:2 is an ideal choice for patients who have limited experience with cannabis. It has enormously benefited the patients of arthritis and fibromyalgia and other types of inflammation-related pain. It gives a crisp and clear high and elevated mood without any sedative effect.
Purple Kush
This strain which originated in California has been cited by patients of fibromyalgia to be extremely effective against pains due to inflammation. Moreover, it can also help to relieve temporary aches from sprains, pulled muscles or sore joints. Purple Kush is known for its sedative effects which help with migraines and other kinds of headaches. The high THC content of this cannabis strain gives you a cerebral high and this is why it needs to be avoided by inexperienced users.
Blackberry Kush
Blackberry Kush is an indica heavy hybrid strain which has gained in popularity because of its pain relieving properties. Although it is known to produce a ‘couch-lock’ kind of high, it is often used by patients of severe pain who find it to be blissful. It gives a strong body high while producing a euphoric sensation followed by sound sleep.
Cannatonic
The parent strain of ACDC, Cannatonic which comes with a minimal amount of THC is just the right cannabis strain for first-time users. People sensitive to THC should certainly opt for this strain which induces an uplifting and relaxing feeling and helps to deal with migraine and muscle spasms.
Jack Herrer
Jack Herrer is a popular weed strain that comes with a sharp focus on pain management. Ideal for daytime users, this sativa dominant cannabis strain can come in really handy for dealing with general pain symptoms.
Cannabis is a perfect natural alternative to over the counter painkillers. When it comes to marijuana for pain management, it is important to note that there are scores of weed strains in the market which are effective analgesics. However, each strain is meant for specific conditions so you need to experiment with a few before buying your monthly stash. You can also consult a cannabis doctor for the ideal pain-alleviating strain and then head to your nearest cannabis dispensary.
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