There has been an increase in interest in cannabis as a possible treatment for various health conditions such as epilepsy. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder marked by recurrent seizures. It has been reported to affect over 50,000,000 people worldwide. Traditional treatment options, like antiepileptic medication (AEDs), may not work for all patients. Additionally, side effects can be undesirable. Recent research suggests that cannabis may offer benefits to epilepsy patients.
CBD (cannabidiol), a non-psychoactive substance that has anticonvulsant properties, is one key component found in cannabis. CBD decreased seizure frequency for patients with treatment-resistant epilepsy, according to a New England Journal of Medicine. CBD treatment led to a 38.9% reduction in seizure frequency for patients with epilepsy. This was compared to the 13.3% seen in patients given a placebo.
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), another key compound, is also found in cannabis plants. THC, which is psychoactive, can give off a feeling of high but also has anticonvulsant property. THC has been shown in studies to decrease seizures frequency and improve seizure control for epilepsy patients.
When selecting a cannabis strain that can treat epilepsy it is important you take into account the ratio of CBD and THC. As CBD has stronger anticonvulsant capabilities than THC, it may be more effective to treat epilepsy with a higher CBD/THC ratio. According to individual needs, some patients may need to have a lower amount of THC than CBD.
Aside from treating epilepsy, cannabis strains may also help with anxiety, depression and sleep problems. THC is a stimulant that can relax and induce sedation.
Important to note is that cannabis strains might not be suitable for every patient with epilepsy. You may experience unwanted side effects if cannabis strains are used in combination with AEDs.
It is clear that cannabis strains can provide many benefits to epilepsy patients with severe epilepsy, particularly for those who have refractory epilepsy. CBD and THC have anticonvulsant effects and can help manage symptoms. Before using cannabis for epilepsy treatment, consult your healthcare provider. This is because it may not suit all patients and may interact with other medications.
Laura McQueen is a writer for MJGreenNews.com.
She has been writing for different cannabis websites and publications since 2018.
