Cannabis and The Neurons: New Frontiers
Among the many benefits coming from the use of cannabis, there is also a recently confirmed series of advantages for people who suffer from brain lesions. While many (uninformed) people still believe smoking and ingesting pot produce only psychotropic effects, marijuana is now universally recognized to be a key player in the fight against many neurological disorders. Now, thanks to a study carried out by a team of scientists based in Rome, and published in the prestigious Journal of Neuroscience, we also know cannabis has the ability to protect the brain against the damages caused by various kinds of lesions. This means the plant has therapeutic properties that can help those who suffer from neurological diseases related to spinal cord and cranial injuries, or even multiple sclerosis.
The main purpose of the study was the analysis of a specific set of mechanisms through which cannabinoids actively interact with our organism. From this analysis, the researchers have noticed that, when properly stimulated, the cannabinoid receptor type 2 increases the strength of our neurons, making them more likely to survive in the long run. This stimulation is a reaction to the so-called tetrahydrocannabinol, also known as THC, a psychoactive compound considered to be the main chemical agent found in the cannabis plant, which has the ability to slow down the degeneration of the neurons and significantly improve the neurological functions of the brain. In order to demonstrate all this, the team of researchers used the most advanced technologies, including laser microscopy, pharmacological test and functional neuromorphology.
The research has already pushed many pharmacological companies to ask politicians and governments the permission to begin the production of cannabis-based drugs that exploit the properties mentioned above. Halting the cerebral degenerative processes would change the life of millions of people, who now live without hope. Plus, drugs specifically engineered for this purpose could also be produced in a way that excludes the psychotropic side effects THC sometimes causes. This is incredible, especially if we consider the number of children who suffer from neurological diseases, who certainly wouldn’t want to experience the classic HIGH.
For those who love cannabis, this is not a surprise. In fact, many smokers have already reported that whenever they use good quality weed (like the one you can buy here http://greenhouseseeds.nl/) their brain functions seem to improve. Unfortunately, and sadly, the experience of a “pot-head” is rarely taken seriously in a culture where cannabis is still largely considered illegal. Hopefully, the studies like the one described in this page will help people change their mind…literally!
