The FDA has approved the Epidiolex, a CBD-based drug, for the treatment of two severe forms of epilepsy for children aged 2 years and more.
Many studies show that cannabis works better for epilepsy and seizures than prescription medications. The marijuana plant contains cannabinoids, which stimulate the endocannabinoid system, thus boosting mood, memory, and various other functions. Using your medical cannabis card, you can purchase marijuana-infused products, such as gummies, brownies, creams, oils, etc. from licensed dispensaries in your state.
Symptoms of Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder, which can result in abnormal brain activity. About 3.4 million individuals suffer from epilepsy in the United States. Patients with this disorder experience seizure of different intensities. Other symptoms include jerking arms & legs, fear, confusion, anxiety, loss of awareness.
Since there are some other conditions causing similar symptoms, sometimes, it is quite difficult to diagnose epilepsy. You should talk to a licensed doctor to get professional help.
Research says that epilepsy occurs due to the increase in electrical activity, thus causing disturbances in certain brain areas. The condition is usually caused by abnormalities in the immune system, tumors, stroke, etc.
Marijuana For Epilepsy
Studies have found that abnormal changes in hippocampal cells can cause seizures. Cannabinoids found in marijuana have a protective nature against the abnormal cells. They work by binding the cannabinoid receptors in the brain regions associated with emotions and memory.
The endocannabinoid system is responsible for controlling different functions, such as sleep, mood, memory, etc. It comprises endocannabinoids, which bind to cannabinoid receptors for proper brain function.
There’s some evidence that cannabinoids can help decrease glutamate synthesis in the central nervous system, thus delivering anti-seizure and anti-inflammatory effects.
A recent evaluation of cannabis oil with THC & CBD reported that it can help reduce seizure frequency in children suffering from Dravet syndrome. Researchers confirmed that the seizure frequency was reduced to 70 percent after 20 weeks of marijuana treatment. However, they noted some side-effects, such as fatigue, diarrhea, etc. So, it’s important to learn how to use the herb right, considering dosage, consumption method, and levels of different cannabinoids.
Additionally, marijuana can help ease anxiety, stress, and depression effectively. In some cases, anxiety and stress can cause seizures.
According to a study published in January 2020, 2-AG, an endocannabinoid that activates the same receptors as THC, can help reduce anxiety between the frontal cortex and the amygdala regions.
Related- Fight These Mental Health Conditions With Marijuana
It’s important to note that there are various factors affecting the effects of marijuana on the body. These include the concentration of THC, CBD & other cannabinoids, dosage, and consumption method. Moreover, tolerance and body chemistry also matter. So, you should make a customized treatment plan considering these factors. Some medical doctors suggest starting with a low dose and try different strains. This way, you can easily evaluate what works for your condition the best.
Different Methods of Cannabis Consumption
When using cannabis for epilepsy and seizures, it’s necessary to choose the appropriate method of marijuana consumption. Here are some of the options available for medical users-
Smoking
The most popular cannabis delivery method, which involves heating cannabis at a high temperature to generate smoke containing cannabis compounds.
Vaping
A vaporizer is used to heat cannabis at a low temperature to generate vapors, which are then inhaled through the mouthpiece.
Edibles
Cannabis-infused foods and drinks, which are ingested and processed by the digestive system. Edibles have a slow onset and last longer than smoking & vaping.
Related- Things to Learn Before Trying Out Marijuana Edibles
Tinctures
Tinctures are absorbed sublingually and deliver immediate medicinal effects. Since they come in dropper bottles, they help consumers to do complete dosage control.
Final Thoughts
Marijuana can help control seizures, reduce anxiety, stress, and depression, thus promoting mental wellness. Its cannabinoids are similar to naturally produced endocannabinoids. So, when you consume cannabinoids through smoking or other consumption methods, they bind to receptors in the endocannabinoid system, thus boosting mood, memory, and various other bodily functions. If you want to use cannabis for managing epilepsy symptoms, get the right strains, choose the dose and consumption method wisely.
Talk to a licensed doctor online to get your medical cannabis card today. If you want to increase your cannabis grow limit to 99 plants, apply for a medical marijuana grower license today.