THC is the component responsible for the “high” you feel. Some believe that THC has no medicinal value at all. Yet, science has shown that this is far from the truth. In addition to other cannabinoids, THC has been found to help people cope with mental and physical conditions. When taken in proper dosage, THC can be an effective supplement towards everyday health. Below are just a few of the many benefits of THC.
Benefit #1: Protects Brain Cells
Propaganda shown in reefer madness amongst other outlets, led many people to believe that cannabis consumption kills brain cells. However in reality, this is far from the truth. Most drugs are neurotoxic, meaning they affect the structure and function of the nervous system. THC is considered a Neuroprotectant. This means that it actually preserves and protects brain cells from damage. Not only does it protect, it also stimulates brain growth. It operates the “CB1 receptor” in our brains which improves our ability to learn. Amazing , right? The reputable Salk Institute has contributed to the growing amount of research that shows how low doses of THC reduce the plaque forming proteins in relation to Alzheimer’s disease.
Benefit # 2: Provides Pain Relief
Pain relief is one of the top benefits of THC. Over 1.5 billion people all around the world suffer from chronic pain. Many of these individuals are living with neuropathic or nerve- related pain. Research shows how the THC component activates pathways in the nervous system that block pain signals from being sent over to the brain.
THC in combination with CBD is particularly very effective in providing pain relief. Several countries have approved CBD to treat certain health conditions.
For example, the U.K. approved it for multiple sclerosis, and Canada approved it for cancer pain. Ongoing research suggests CBD oil for pain can aid medical conditions, including arthritis and fibromyalgia. Some pain may not be treatable by CBD alone, but it can help when paired with THC!
Benefit # 3: Effective Sleep Aid
People spend up to one-third of their lives sleeping. Sleep is a basic human need , much like eating and drinking. It is crucial to our overall health and well-being. Good quality and restorative sleep is essential to function properly. Lack of sleep has a tremendous negative impact on both our short and long term health. The effects can be felt as soon as the next day. Short term effects of poor quality sleep include a negative impact on our attention span, memory recall and learning. Longer term effects have been associated with significant health problems, including obesity, diabetes, weakened immune systems and even some cancers.
Lack of sleep is related to many psychological conditions such as depression, anxiety and psychosis. Over 48 % of the adult population suffer from sleep-related disorders. THC is an effective sleep aid because it restores our natural sleep cycle. It also increases the time you spend in deep sleep, to ensure a quality rest. Products higher in THC percentage will be very effective to help sleep. More specifically, Indica strains are known to relax the body and mind and are known to cause sleepiness. The terpene known as Mycrene, is one of the most common terpenes found in indica plants. This is responsible for the sedative and motor relaxant effects. One great way to remember which type of strain is best for sleep is ; Indica = In Da Couch.
Benefit #4: Appetite Boost
Eating disorders affect at least 9 % of the worldwide population. Health conditions such as eating disorders, dementia, and HIV can promote loss of appetite. Over time malnourishment or even death could be the result. THC is well known for increasing appetite. Tis is because THC interacts with the same receptors that release the hunger stimulating hormone known as Ghrelin. THC can actually make food taste better too. It is more profound than just a case of the “munchies”. These hunger boosting effects can improve the quality of life immensely.
Benefit # 5: Helps with PTSD
PTSD stands for post traumatic stress disorder. PTSD can include symptoms such as agitation, severe anxiety, depression, insomnia, nightmares, and social isolation – it is a crippling condition to all who suffer from it. THC reduces the activity in the part of the brain known as amygdala. This part of the brain is associated with fear responses to threats. THC is known for its ability to extinguish traumatic memories. THC aids with the agitation, anxiety, depression, isolation, and sleep deprivation that come with PTSD disorder.
There are many benefits of THC in addition to the ones listed above. It has a tremendously positive impact on many lives, for many reasons.
