Health Benefits, Uses & Side Effects of Medical Cannabis

on July 10, 2021

For thousands of years, humans have enjoyed the benefits of medical marijuana. And it’s no wonder, since cannabis can have a profound positive effect on chronic pain, mood, and much more.


But, like any treatments, there can be side effects and concerns about usage.


Today we’re breaking down the health benefits, uses, and side effects of medical cannabis.

Health Benefits of Medical Marijuana

Medical cannabis has long been popularized for its wide range of health benefits. These include:

  • Help nausea
  • Increase appetite
  • Improve chronic pain 
  • Improve focus
  • Manage insulin
  • Manage mood
  • Promote sleep
  • Treat inflammation
  • Treat seizures

Read more: What are the benefits and effects of medical cannabis?

Uses & Treatment with Medical Cannabis

Most commonly, medical marijuana is used for chronic pain relief. While it can’t help severe pain, chronic (and more subtle) pain is an excellent use of cannabis.


In general, marijuana is safe for users and certainly a safer, less addictive option than opiates. It’s also a better option than NSAIDS (like ibuprofen and aspirin) for those who can’t use them due to kidney or ulcer issues.


In addition, cannabis allows users to continue living life in a way they’re accustomed to, without feeling “out of it” like opiates tend to make users feel.


More specific uses of cannabis include treatment of:

  • ADD/ADHD
  • Anxiety
  • Cancer
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Diabetes
  • Glaucoma
  • Endometriosis
  • Epilepsy
  • Fibromyalgia
  • HIV
  • Irritable bowel syndrome
  • Insomnia
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • PTSD

Side Effects of Medical Marijuana

Again, as with all treatments, there are certainly side effects that you should be aware of as a new (or existing) cannabis user.


Cannabis affects everyone differently, but here are some potential side effects to be aware:

  • Depressant effects
  • Hallucinogenic effects
  • Opioid-like effects (with fewer risks than opiates)
  • Stimulating effects

Read more: What are the side effects of medical cannabis?


Now that you have a better sense of health benefits, uses, and side effects, you may be ready to learn more about strains and ways to consume medical cannabis.


At Hive Medicinal, we’d love to help with your medical marijuana needs as your local Maine dispensary. Take a look at our current cannabis products or, better yet, stop by in person!

Hive Medicinal

Hive Medicinal is a medical marijuana dispensary with two locations in Maine. You can visit us at 65 River Road in Chelsea, Maine or 210 College Ave in Waterville, Maine.

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