Medical marijuana research has made great strides since legalization began to change, not just in the United States but all over the globe. From neurological studies to how patients who were current users of marijuana differed from non-users in their recovery from COVID-19, researchers are amassing studies that reveal what a versatile and medicinal plant marijuana is. To keep patients and those with an interest in marijuana research up to date, we’ve compiled a list of some of the recent research along with links to access the studies and their results.
Neuroimaging studies of cannabidiol and potential neurobiological mechanisms relevant for alcohol use disorders: a systematic review – Based on previous research, this study suggests that CBD may affect salience, reward, emotion generation and regulation, and executive control (including inhibition control, working memory, and self-monitoring) processes. These processes are highly relevant to alcohol-seeking behaviors, suggesting that CBD may have potential in the management of alcohol use disorder. LINK
A narrative review of the therapeutic and remedial prospects of cannabidiol with emphasis on neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders – This study states that based on results that show CBD is an antagonist against pro-inflammatory cytokines and the cytokine storm associated with neurological infections/disorders. CBD regulates adenosine/oxidative stress and aids in the downregulation of TNF-α, restoration of BDNF mRNA expression, and recovery of serotonin levels. Thus, CBD is involved in immune suppression and anti-inflammation. Researchers further stated that the study on metabolites and the endocannabinoid system need further research to determine the exact dosage and the extent of their impact on neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. LINK
Cannabis use associated with lower mortality among hospitalized COVID-19 patients using the national inpatient sample: an epidemiological study – This study marks the first attempt to examine active cannabis use and COVID-19 outcomes among people who use cannabis using a national inpatient sample database. The results reveal significantly lower odds of COVID-19-related hospitalization and mortality among individuals with a history of cannabis use compared to those without such a history. LINK
Characteristics of patients with non-cancer pain and long-term prescription opioid use who have used medical versus recreational marijuana – Lifetime medical marijuana use is not linked to current opioid dose, but lifetime recreational use is associated with more than a 60% odds of being a daily prescription opioid user. Screening for lifetime recreational marijuana use may identify patients with chronic pain who are vulnerable to daily opioid use which increases the risk for adverse opioid outcomes. LINK
Cannabis sativa demonstrates anti-hepatocellular carcinoma potentials in animal model: in silico and in vivo studies of the involvement of Akt – Researchers in this study established that C. sativa demonstrates anti-hepatocellular carcinoma (aggressive cancer usually found in patients with advanced liver disease) potentials in an animal model of HCC and with the involvement of Akt (Akt enzymes help to transfer signals inside cells. An Akt enzyme is a type of serine/threonine protein kinase. Also called protein kinase B). THC and cannabidiol form stable hydrophobic and hydrogen bond interactions within the catalytic domain of Akt-2. C. sativa extract reduced the activities of liver function enzymes. It ameliorates lipid peroxidation and increases the antioxidant enzymes’ activities. It shows anti-angiogenic, proapoptotic, and anti-inflammatory effects. It also demonstrates cell cycle arrest. C. sativa extract further demonstrates its anti-HCC effects by moderating necrosis and reducing inflammation in HCC. LINK
Eight Weeks of Daily Cannabidiol Supplementation Improves Sleep Quality and Immune Cell Cytotoxicity – This study was the first to investigate potential changes in mental health, perceived sleep, actigraphy-monitored sleep, immune cell distribution, and cytotoxic function following eight weeks of daily, low dose CBD ingestion in healthy college-aged individuals. Researchers report that the results indicate that continuous doses of CBD significantly enhanced sleep quality and enhanced NK (natural killer) cell cytotoxicity against a malignant human leukemic cancer cell line. LINK
It’s important to note that, while research into medical marijuana’s potential benefits is promising, the regulatory landscape and scientific understanding continue to evolve. Patients considering medical marijuana should consult with healthcare professionals knowledgeable about cannabis therapeutics to determine if it’s an appropriate treatment option for their specific condition. Contact The Healing Clinics to get more information on starting your healing journey with medical marijuana or click the button below to get started now.
