If you live in the US, it’s more likely than not that your state has approved the consumption of cannabis legal for those suffering from certain medical conditions. From HIV to cancer, more and more studies have been highlighting the benefits that marijuana has on treating a range of symptoms and diseases.
While many states now have a long list of diseases that qualify patients for a medical marijuana card, there are a few conditions that are common on every state’s list. These conditions have many studies showing the efficacy of cannabis consumption on the disease itself or related symptoms. Below, we’ve summarized the top five most common medical marijuana qualifying conditions.
HIV/AIDS
When the study of marijuana for medical purposes was in its infancy, HIV/AIDS was one of the primary diseases that showed a powerful benefit from cannabis. Much of the advocacy around legalizing medical marijuana formed because of the positive effects that cannabis showed towards reducing appetite loss, nausea, and fatigue for patients diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. As a result, many states have approved the use of medical marijuana for HIV/AIDS patients.
Nausea
As nausea can be both a stand-alone condition and a side effect from treatments for chronic diseases, it’s not a surprise that most states approve medical marijuana for those suffering from nausea. Some allow it at a broad level, while others require the patients to suffer from severe or intractable symptoms.
Cannabis is widely accepted to help treat many levels of nausea, with many patients reporting an immediate reduction or complete cessation of nauseous feelings shortly after consuming marijuana.
Cancer
Many studies are exploring cannabis’ effects on treating the cancer itself, but for now, many states recognize marijuana as an acceptable treatment for symptoms caused by cancer and chemotherapy, including pain, nausea, and appetite loss.
Almost all states will approve a medical marijuana card for those diagnosed with cancer, which patients report can be hugely helpful in minimizing uncomfortable symptoms during the course of their treatment. Many patients find that a strain that contains equal parts THC and CBD most effective.
Epilepsy and Seizures
Over all other conditions on the list, cannabis is most widely recognized for its ability to treat epilepsy and seizure disorders. Several studies have found that CBD can help reduce seizure frequency by almost 50%, including in minors.
As a result, almost every state allows residents suffering from a seizure disorder to legally purchase marijuana to treat and manage their condition. Guardians can also buy cannabis for minors with similar conditions in most states.
PTSD
Many cannabis strains, especially indica, are well-known for their stress and anxiety-reducing properties, so it should come as no surprise that marijuana is helpful in treating PTSD. Its benefits for those suffering from PTSD shine at bedtime – studies have shown that it helps patients fall asleep faster, sleep longer, and suppress nightmares and anxiety.