Cannabis has historically been stigmatized due to its effects, but it is now increasingly recognized for its potential in various medical fields. In recent years, research into the therapeutic properties of cannabis has notably increased, especially regarding its benefits for neurological conditions.
Beyond its well-known applications for stress relief, reducing depression, and improving sleep, cannabis shows promise in treating a variety of neurological disorders. This article explores five such conditions and investigates how a cannabis or cannabis contributes to their therapeutic applications.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- Certain cannabinoids and terpenes display unique effects on various neurological disorders.
- Linalool, myrcene, and limonene possess anti-convulsant properties.
- Equal amounts of THC and CBD, along with other cannabis compounds, show promise in cancer treatment.
A Natural Approach to Managing Neurological Disorders
Addressing the complexities of conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), brain tumours, Parkinson’s disease (PD), intractable epilepsy, and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) varies based on individual patient needs and the severity of their condition.
Cannabis is a Viable Treatment Option
Epilepsy
The endocannabinoid system affects the seizure threshold. THC, in particular, can effectively stop seizures, unlike phenobarbital and diphenylhydantoin. Animal studies have indicated spikes in endocannabinoid production and sustained increases in CB1 over time. The anti-convulsant properties of cannabinoids have been noted even at levels below sedation.
THC, THCA, and linalool, a terpenoid in cannabis, have been subjects of scientific inquiry. The conversation around THCA is intricate, with debates regarding its CB1 activity versus its conversion to THC.
Recent studies also highlight the anti-convulsant properties of cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), indicating its serotonergic effects. CBDA shows a significantly higher affinity for the 5-HT1A receptor than CBD.
If you wish to explore cannabis vape pens to assist with your condition, seek products containing THC, CBD, THCA, or Linalool.
OneStop – THC Distillate Disposable Vape pen Skittlez features linalool as a primary terpene with 16 to 21% THC.
Brain Tumours
Numerous studies have investigated cannabis use in patients with diagnosed brain tumours. A study published in the British Journal of Cancer in 2006 found that administering THC directly into tumours in patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) slightly prolonged their lives beyond expectations in nine human cases.
Additionally, a case report from the Journal of Child’s Nervous System documented complete regression of residual tumours in two children with pilocytic astrocytomas after using cannabis.
THCA, acting as a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARγ) agonist, surpasses CBDA, CBD, or THC in potential impact. PPARs function as ligand-binding transcription factors, promising targeted action on cancer cells while sparing normal cells. The synergistic effects of THCA with other cytotoxic agents underscore its potential in cancer therapy.
Equal concentrations of THC and CBD, when combined with THCA, CBDA, and cytotoxic terpenoids like limonene, hold significant potential in cancer treatment, as suggested by a study in the Planta Medicine Journal. Disposable cannabis pens can house these cannabinoids and terpenes within a single cartridge.
Parkinson’s Disease
An observational study revealed that 22 out of 28 patients could tolerate smoked cannabis, presumably THC-predominant. The study also noted acute benefits, including improvements in tremor, rigidity, and bradykinesia among participants.
In Parkinson’s disease, the loss of cells in the substantia nigra often causes widespread pathology over time. Tau proteins, which support the cytoskeleton and assist with axonal transport in neurons, undergo changes that lead to the formation of neurofibrillary tangles.
Nabiximols, a cannabis-based oral spray, significantly decreased tangles when researchers administered it to parkin-null mice expressing human tau. This treatment improved dopamine metabolism and glial function while reducing oxidative stress levels.
THC vape pens like cannabis can be an excellent choice if you aim to improve tremors.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) involves forming senile plaques from β-amyloid (Aβ) proteins, which occur when enzymes split a precursor protein (APP). It also includes the buildup of neurofibrillary tangles from tau proteins with excessive phosphate groups attached. These tangles sometimes appear before the β-amyloid plaques. Once these processes begin, the disease’s progression becomes inevitable.
CBD acts as a protective antioxidant for the brain, safely interacting with NMDA receptors. It combats Alzheimer’s disease by halting Aβ plaque formation, reducing harmful ROS production, and preventing damage to fats in PC12 cells exposed to Aβ. CBD also inhibits tau proteins from acquiring too many phosphate groups attached to PC12 neurons impacted by Aβ.
In a study, patients received THC-predominant (2.5–30 mg/dose), CBD-predominant, and THCA, mainly delivered through tinctures and confections. Patients reported reduced dependency on neuroleptic drugs, alleviated agitation, enhanced appetite, managed aggression, improved sleep quality, boosted mood, decreased nursing care demands, mitigated self-harm tendencies, and controlled pain.
Cannabis components demonstrate potential in addressing various symptoms associated with this complex disorder:
- Agitation may find relief with THC, CBD, and linalool.
- Psychosis symptoms may benefit from CBD.
- THC and linalool may alleviate insomnia and restlessness.
- THC is indicated for anorexia, while THC, CBD, and linalool may assist with aggression.
- THC, limonene, and CBD could potentially aid in managing depression.
- THC and CBD are recognized for pain relief properties.
- Alpha-pinene, along with THC, is linked to memory enhancement.
- CBD and THC are connected with neuroprotection, while THC, CBD, and THCA may contribute to diminished Aβ plaque formation.
Traumatic Brain Injury / Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy
Cannabis, particularly chemovars blending THC and CBD, can alleviate symptoms associated with CTE, including headache, nausea, insomnia, dizziness, agitation, substance abuse, and psychotic symptoms.
A 2019 study indicated that varying concentrations of THC and CBD help relieve stress, agitation, depression, and anxiety—common emotional manifestations in chronic traumatic encephalopathy cases. Cannabinoids assist in reducing glutamate excitotoxicity, a process that leads to nerve cell damage following a traumatic brain injury.
Want to Use cannabis for Your Current Condition?
Engaging in cannabis use is a widely adopted method to reap its advantages. If you seek to avoid potential health risks linked to traditional methods, cannabis vapes offer a viable alternative.
Weed vape pens feature a heating chamber that transforms the flower or concentrate into vapour. Online cannabis stores present various options to help you find the best vape pen for your needs. You can choose based on the pen type, including disposable vape pens, whether you prefer Sativa-dominant or Indica-dominant cartridges with high THC, or the specific concentrate used.
Weed Vape Pens Treat Your Condition
Neurological treatment for the conditions discussed requires significant advancement. However, emerging methods like utilizing cannabis, including through a cannabis pen, in treatment protocols show promise. Research studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that cannabis, with its varying levels of THC, CBD, and other compounds, can interact with the ECS to help manage symptoms of these conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a dab pen provide the same experience as a vape pen?
A dab pen and a vape pen both vaporize cannabis concentrates but differ in intensity and usage. Dab pens are designed for solid concentrates like wax and produce a more intense effect. Vape pens utilize liquid concentrates, offering a milder, more controlled experience.
Are THC pens cheap?
The average cost of a cannabis pen is around $50. You can find options as economical as $20 and others reaching $200 or more. The price variance depends on battery life and the features offered.
Can my current medication interact with the active ingredient in my cannabis vape?
It depends on your prescription drug. If you take antidepressants while managing Parkinson’s disease, cannabis might initially increase serotonin levels. This can heighten the body’s reliance on these substances, potentially worsening depression and anxiety over time. It is best to consult your doctor before adding cannabis to your current medication regimen.
Are cannabis pens the best alternative when treating health issues with cannabis?
Weed pens provide a cleaner method to use cannabis without the smoke from combustion. This makes them a preferred option for individuals seeking a less harmful and more discreet solution for health issues like pain and anxiety.
However, whether cannabis pens are the optimal choice depends on the individual using them. As we continue to learn about their long-term effects, it is crucial for anyone considering their use for health reasons to discuss it with a doctor first. This ensures they are selecting the best method for their health needs.
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