Haute Health Canada has historically faced stigma due to its effects; however, it is now gaining increased recognition for its potential across various medical fields. Recent years have witnessed a significant surge in research surrounding the therapeutic properties of cannabis, particularly its benefits for neurological conditions.
Beyond its commonly recognized applications for stress relief, alleviating depression, and enhancing sleep, cannabis shows promise in addressing a range of neurological disorders. In this article, we explore five such conditions and investigate how cannabis contributes to their therapeutic applications.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways:
- Certain cannabinoids and terpenes exhibit distinct effects on various neurological disorders.
- Linalool, myrcene, and limonene possess anti-convulsant properties.
- Equal amounts of THC and CBD, along with other cannabis compounds, hold potential in cancer treatment.
A Natural Approach to Managing Neurological Disorders
The approach to addressing the complexities of conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), brain tumors, Parkinson’s disease (PD), intractable epilepsy, and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) varies based on individual patient needs and the severity of their condition.
cannabis is a Viable Treatment Option
Epilepsy
The endocannabinoid system influences the seizure threshold. THC, in particular, can effectively halt seizures, unlike certain conventional medications. Animal studies have indicated acute spikes in endocannabinoid production and a sustained increase in CB1 production over time. Researchers have noted the anti-convulsant properties of cannabinoids even at levels below sedation.
THC, THCA, and linalool, a terpenoid found in cannabis, have been subjects of scientific exploration. The discussion surrounding THCA is complex, involving debates about its CB1 activity versus its spontaneous conversion to THC.
Recent findings have also highlighted the anti-convulsant properties of cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), with indications pointing to its serotonergic effects. CBDA exhibits a significantly higher affinity for the 5-HT1A receptor than CBD.
If you are considering exploring cannabis vape pens to assist with your condition, look for products that contain THC, CBD, THCA, or linalool.
Haute Health Canada – THC Distillate Disposable Vape Pen Skittlez contains linalool as one of its primary terpenes with 16 to 21% THC.
Brain Tumors
Numerous studies have investigated the use of cannabis in patients diagnosed with brain tumors. A study published in the British Journal of Cancer in 2006 found that administering THC directly into tumors in patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) slightly extended their lives beyond expectations in nine human cases.
Additionally, a case report from the Journal of Child’s Nervous System documented complete regression of residual tumors in two children with pilocytic astrocytomas after they smoked cannabis.
THCA, acting as a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARγ) agonist, outperforms other cannabinoids in potential impact. PPARs function as ligand-binding transcription factors, promising to target cancer cells selectively while preserving normal cells. The synergistic effects of THCA with other cytotoxic agents underscore its potential in cancer therapy.
Equal concentrations of THC and CBD, when combined with THCA, CBDA, and cytotoxic terpenoids like limonene, hold significant promise in cancer treatment, as suggested by a study in the Planta Medicine Journal. Disposable cannabis pens can contain these cannabinoids and terpenes in a single cartridge.
Parkinson’s Disease
An observational study revealed that 22 out of 28 patients were able to tolerate smoked cannabis, presumably THC-predominant. The study noted acute benefits, including improvements in tremor, rigidity, and bradykinesia among participants.
In Parkinson’s disease, the loss of cells in the substantia nigra often causes widespread pathology over time. Tau proteins, which support the cytoskeleton and facilitate axonal transport in neurons, undergo changes that lead to the formation of neurofibrillary tangles.
Researchers observed that Nabiximols, a cannabis-based oral spray, significantly reduced tangles when administered to parkin-null mice expressing human tau. This treatment improved dopamine metabolism and glial function while reducing oxidative stress levels.
THC vape pens like cannabis can be an excellent choice for those seeking to improve tremors.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) involves the formation of senile plaques from β-amyloid (Aβ) proteins, which arise when enzymes split a precursor protein (APP). It also involves the accumulation of neurofibrillary tangles from tau proteins with excessive phosphate groups attached. Occasionally, these tangles appear before the β-amyloid plaques. Once these processes commence, the disease’s progression is relentless.
CBD acts as a protective antioxidant for the brain, safely interacting with NMDA receptors. It performs several functions to combat Alzheimer’s disease: it halts the formation of Aβ plaques, reduces harmful ROS production, and prevents damage to fats in PC12 cells exposed to Aβ. CBD also inhibits tau proteins from acquiring excessive phosphate groups in PC12 neurons affected by Aβ.
In a study, patients received THC-predominant (2.5–30 mg/dose), CBD-predominant, and THCA, primarily administered through tinctures and confections. Patients reported reduced dependency on neuroleptic drugs, alleviated agitation, enhanced appetite, managed aggression, improved sleep quality, boosted mood, decreased demands for nursing care, mitigated self-mutilation tendencies, and controlled pain.
cannabis components exhibit potential to address various symptoms associated with this complex disorder:
- Agitation may find relief with THC, CBD, and linalool.
- Psychosis symptoms may benefit from CBD.
- THC and linalool may alleviate insomnia and restlessness.
- THC is indicated for anorexia, while THC, CBD, and linalool may assist with aggression.
- THC, limonene, and CBD could potentially aid in managing depression.
- THC and CBD for pain-relieving properties.
- Alpha-pinene, in conjunction with THC, is linked to memory enhancement.
- CBD and THC are associated with neuroprotection, while THC, CBD, and THCA may contribute to reduced Aβ plaque formation.
Traumatic Brain Injury / Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy
cannabis, particularly chemovars blending THC and CBD, can alleviate symptoms associated with CTE, including headache, nausea, insomnia, dizziness, agitation, substance abuse, and psychotic symptoms.
A 2019 study indicated that varying concentrations of THC and CBD contribute to alleviating stress, agitation, depression, and anxiety—common emotional responses in chronic traumatic encephalopathy cases. Cannabinoids help diminish glutamate excitotoxicity, a process that leads to nerve cell damage following a traumatic brain injury.
Want to Use cannabis for Your Current Condition?
Engaging in cannabis use is a widely adopted method to harness its advantages. If you’re aiming to avoid the potential health risks associated with traditional methods, cannabis vapes present a viable alternative.
Haute Health Canada offers numerous options to help you find the best vape pen for your needs. You can choose based on the pen type, including disposable vape pens, whether you prefer Sativa-dominant or Indica-dominant cartridges with high THC, or the specific concentrate it utilizes.
cannabis Vape Pens Treat Your Condition
Neurological treatment for the conditions discussed in this article requires significant advancement. However, emerging methods like utilizing cannabis, including through a cannabis pen, in treatment protocols show promise. Research studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that cannabis, with its varying levels of THC, CBD, and other compounds, can interact with the ECS to assist in managing symptoms of these conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a dab pen provide the same experience as a vape pen?
A dab pen and a vape pen both vaporize cannabis concentrates but differ in intensity and usage. Dab pens are designed for solid concentrates like wax and yield a more intense effect. Vape pens utilize liquid concentrates, offering a milder, more controlled experience.
Are THC pens cheap?
The average cost of a cannabis pen is approximately $50. You’ll find options as economical as $20 and others going up to $200 or more. The price variation depends on battery life and the range of features offered.
Can my current medication interact with the active ingredient in my cannabis vape?
This will depend on your prescription medication. If you take anti-depressants while managing Parkinson’s disease, cannabis might lead to an initial surplus of serotonin, intensifying the body’s reliance on these substances, which could worsen depression and anxiety over time. It is advisable to consult your doctor before adding cannabis to your current medication regimen.
Are cannabis pens the best alternative when treating health issues with cannabis?
cannabis pens offer a cleaner method to consume cannabis without the smoke associated with burning it. This makes them a popular choice for individuals seeking a less harmful and more discreet option to manage health issues like pain and anxiety.
However, whether cannabis pens are the best choice can vary by individual. As we continue to learn about their long-term effects, it is crucial for anyone considering their use for health reasons to consult with a doctor first. This ensures they are selecting the most appropriate method for their health needs.
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