According to new research, Medical marijuana may relieve some symptoms in people with multiple sclerosis (MS)
Marijuana, hemp, and cannabis are common names for plants of
the genus Cannabis. The term “hemp” is
used for Cannabis plants that are grown for nondrug use, such as Cannabis
sativa. Cannabis indica has poor fiber
quality and is used to make drugs for recreation and medicine. The major
differences between the two are appearance and the amount of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabino
(THC), the active ingredient of marijuana.
Marijuana has been studied for the relief of MS symptoms such as nerve
pain, muscle spasms, and urinary disorders.
The active ingredients have effects on the central nervous system and
immune cells.
In a new study, researchers conducted a comprehensive search
for complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) treatments with potential
benefits in MS patients. The researchers found that most of the therapies reviewed
provided little benefit. However, it was
found that taking cannabis extract by mouth or through a spray might reduce
spasms or pain. It is
hypothesized that the THC may provide relief for these symptoms.
The authors noted that patients should be
made aware that these treatments are likely ineffective in the short term, but
may provide long-term relief. In
addition to marijuana, there is also evidence that magnet therapy may relieve
fatigue but not depression symptoms associated with the disease.
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