What Is Marijuana
Marijuana is another name for the cannabis plant. There are numerous strains and types of cannabis, some which are stronger than others. Marijuana has been used for years for the treatment of numerous medical conditions. It is currently considered a schedule one substance which has no medical value. Current research shows that the connection between marijuana and epilepsy has promising effects. Here you’ll find information on marijuana and how it can assist in epilepsy and other conditions.
Types of marijuana
Sativa
- Lower CBD and higher THC levels
- Helps increase energy and reduce anxiety
Indica
- Grows faster than sativa
- Higher CBD and lower THC levels
- Very relaxing effects
Hybrid
- Grown in green houses
- Unique THC to CBD ratios
- Decrease anxiety and stress
Parts of Marijuana
CBD
- Calm and relaxing
- Helps psychological conditions
- Good for night time use
THC
- Euphoric Feeling
- Good for daytime use
How can marijuana help epilepsy ?
From the three types of marijuana, it is the hybrid which allows for the making of different ratios of CBD to THC levels. These ratios work differently in each individual, but in a general sense, both THC and CBD have the previously described effects.
An example of this may be two individuals could have epilepsy and the same seizure type, and a specific concentration help one while having no effect on the other individual. Because of this, it is difficult to know what specifically will work for ones’ condition, and different concentrations may have to be tried before finding what works best for the individual.
Different strains with a higher level of CBD have been shown to be more effective in the treatment of seizures than THC. The exact reason for this is still not totally clear. One general reason for a reduction in seizures seen could be from a decrease in anxiety and depression which one may have.
Some other reasons thought for marijuana having a positive effect on seizures include its effects on certain proteins (2), as well as the effects it may have on the actions of sodium and calcium channels. (1)
Marijuana Strains Good For Seizures
Can CBD help in decreasing seizures ?
Some studies have shown CBD, a main substance in marijuana to help with two chronic epilepsy conditions of lennox gastric syndrome (LGS), and dravvett syndrome. There is no known anti epileptic drug which has been shown to help with these conditions.
Forms of marijuana
There are numerous forms of marijuana that can be used. Each form has a different effect when it comes to the intensity as well as the time needed to take effect. In order to get the most out of a specific strain, this requires either smoking or vaping. Other forms such as oils or capsules are not as effective since they are not from the main source.
Side effects
Marijuana
- Drowsiness
- Loss of appetite
- Sleeplesness
- Increase infection risk
- Dirrhea
Medications
- Sleep disturbances
- Irrability
- Dizziness
- Memory issues
- Slurred speech
Although side effects are normally seen as a negative, some of these side effects could be good. An example of this may be an individual that had a difficult time going to sleep. Someone that has a low appetite level which is a side effect of some epilepsy medications would be helped as well.
Where is it legal ?
There are currently a number of countries which allow the use of marijuana as a medical treatment. Although this does not include the United States, it is legal in some states. Here are the states where marijuana is legal for medical use, as well as countries.
References
2. Pharmacological and therapeutic properties of cannabidiol for epilepsy