7 Medical Benefits of THC Backed by Science

THC is the most recognized ingredient in cannabis & is best known for causing the high you get. However, the high is seen as a drawback when compared to these 7 benefits as outlined by Leaf Science. 

• Pain Relief

  By The Stoner's Cookbook

  One of the most common uses of medical marijuana is for pain relief. The THC in marijuana activates pathways in the central nervous system that help block pain signals from being sent to the brain. 

• PTSD

  By The Stoner's Cookbook

  The high from THC is [associated](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17019571) with temporary impairments of memory. While this may be seen as a drawback, impaired memory can be [therapeutic](http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/05/130514085016.htm) for those who struggle to forget painful memories.

• Nausea and Vomiting

  By The Stoner's Cookbook

  Marinol, a THC pill has been used for treating nausea and vomiting in cancer patients [since](http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/cam/cannabis/healthprofessional/page5) the 1980s. Since then, other THC pills have been developed & prescribed to patients undergoing chemotherapy.

• Appetite Stimulant

  By The Stoner's Cookbook

  Marijuana is a powerful appetite stimulant (munchies, anyone?) Unsurprisingly, Marinol & Cesamet are regularly [prescribed](http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/cam/cannabis/healthprofessional/page5) to boost appetite in patients with cancer and HIV-associated wasting syndrome.

• Asthma

  By The Stoner's Cookbook

  Following [trials](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1099949) that showed marijuana could calm asthma attacks, [scientists](http://www.truthonpot.com/2013/05/11/medical-marijuana-and-asthma-benefits-vs-risks/) tried (and failed) to develop a THC inhaler. While the inhaler was abandoned, [some](http://www.leafscience.com/2014/02/04/study-explains-marijuana-isnt-bad-asthma/) say vaporizers might be the solution.

• Glaucoma

  By The Stoner's Cookbook

  Studies in the 1970s showed that smoking marijuana could reduce symptoms in glaucoma sufferers. Some glaucoma patients still rely on medical marijuana to this day.

• Sleep Aid

  By The Stoner's Cookbook

  It's no secret that marijuana helps you sleep better. Recent [studies](http://http//journal.frontiersin.org/Journal/10.3389/fpsyt.2013.00001/abstract) suggest THC may also improve nighttime breathing and reduce sleep interruptions in those who suffer from sleep apnea.