In recent years, a series of studies have shown the many medical benefits of using marijuana. While research is ongoing, both doctors and patients have reached agreement that medical marijuana helps in five key areas: pain management, mental health, inflammation, certain neurological conditions, and sleep.

Multiple studies have shown the potential of using cannabis to treat these conditions. And cannabis advocates for years have touted the medical benefits of using marijuana, including in these five areas. Scientific research has caught up with them in some areas, especially since more people are calling out the bias from previous research in the U.S.

The Five Areas Most Mentioned For Cannabis Treatment

Medical researchers have conducted studies in all of these areas. There’s also plenty of anecdotal evidence from surveys of patients. For those interested in knowing the medical benefits of using marijuana, the following offers a good place to start.

Pain Management

A growing number of seniors have reported they now use weed to manage their chronic pain. The cannabinoids in cannabis interact with receptors in the brain, lessening the pain felt by some patients. A recent Harvard University study found that a group of patients lowered their pain levels through using cannabis. The conditions they treated included arthritis, joint pain and neuropathy. Other studies found cannabis can also treat migraines and headaches.

Mental Health

Marijuana advocates have said for decades that a major benefit of weed is its ability to calm a person. Those who experience anxiety say using cannabis helps them better manage their feelings of stress and anxiety. A study published in Clinical Psychology Review found that cannabis may provide effective treatment for people with PTSD. That includes reducing the number and intensity of nightmares.

Inflammation

The Harvard study and others have found that medical marijuana can reduce inflammation. A reduction in inflammation is considered good for overall health. It’s also associated with Crohn’s disease and irritable bowel syndrome. CBD, which does not cause the “high” feeling, also has been found to help with inflammation, as well as weight loss and other issues.

Certain Neurological Conditions

The only cannabis-related medicine approved by the FDA is Epidiolex, which treats a certain type of epilepsy. A study published by Cureus also shows that marijuana potentially can help those with Parkinson’s disease better manage motor and non-motor symptoms.

Insomnia

In recent years, more research has come to light on the importance of sleep for good health. And weed can help with that. A host of studies on sleep have found that cannabis can reduce nightmares, combat insomnia, and lead to a longer, more restful sleep. That, in turn, can have a positive impact on a person’s health.

These five areas represent some of the most well-known medical benefits of using marijuana. Those interested in medical marijuana should consult their doctor. But if they experience any of these issues, studies have shown that cannabis may provide the help they need.