The Benefits of Using Cannabis Strains for Treating Epilepsy

There has been an increase in interest in cannabis as a possible treatment for various health conditions such as epilepsy. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder marked by recurrent seizures. It has been reported to affect over 50,000,000 people worldwide. Traditional treatment options, like antiepileptic medication (AEDs), may not work for all patients. Additionally, side effects can be undesirable. Recent research suggests that cannabis may offer benefits to epilepsy patients.

CBD (cannabidiol), a non-psychoactive substance that has anticonvulsant properties, is one key component found in cannabis. CBD decreased seizure frequency for patients with epilepsy treated-resistant. This was according to a New England Journal of Medicine article. CBD treatment led to a 38.9% reduction in seizure frequency for patients with epilepsy. This was compared to the 13.3% seen in patients given a placebo.

THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), another key compound, is found in cannabis strains. THC, which is psychoactive, can give off a feeling of high but also has anticonvulsant property. THC has been proven to be effective in controlling seizures and reducing seizure frequency in epileptic patients.

It is important that you take into account the ratio of CBD to HHC when selecting a cannabis variety for epilepsy treatment. As CBD has stronger anticonvulsant capabilities than THC, it may be more effective to treat epilepsy with a higher CBD/THC ratio. According to individual needs, some patients may need to have a lower amount of THC and CBD.

Aside from treating epilepsy, cannabis strains may also help manage other conditions such as anxiety and depression. THC is a stimulant that can relax and induce sedation. However, CBD has been shown to have anxiolytic as well as antidepressant properties.

Important to note is that not all cannabis strains are suitable for epilepsy patients. You may experience unwanted side effects if cannabis strains are used in combination with AEDs.

It is clear that cannabis strains can provide many benefits to epilepsy patients with severe epilepsy, particularly for those who are resistant to treatment. CBD and THC have anticonvulsant effects and can help to manage other symptoms. Before using cannabis for epilepsy treatment, consult your doctor. Some strains may not be suitable for every patient and can interact with other medications.