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No country has contributed more to cannabis research than Israel, thanks in large part to Dr. Raphael Mechoulam. His pioneering work uncovered THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) as the psychoactive element in cannabis, using rigorous testing methods that even included Rhesus monkeys.
While he warned about THC’s impact on adolescent brain development, Dr Mechoulam also described cannabis as a “medicinal treasure trove.” Medical cannabis has already proven effective for conditions like glaucoma, PTSD, Crohn’s disease, epilepsy, and more. But some of THC’s health benefits remain lesser-known—even to users in the UK.
While the internet is full of exaggerated claims about cannabis curing cancer, the real science—such as that from Madrid’s Complutense University—tells a more measured story. Research led by Manuel Guzmán has shown that THC reduced or eliminated brain tumours in lab rats. Though these findings aren’t yet conclusive for humans, they point to promising potential in oncology.
Cannabis isn’t just for internal wellness—it may also improve your skin. Dr Alexis Granite, a UK dermatologist, has spoken about cannabinoids as powerful antioxidants that may soothe inflammation and repair skin barriers. Topical THC-infused products are increasingly used in Britain to treat acne, dry skin, rashes, and even early signs of ageing, thanks to their mineral-rich, anti-inflammatory nature.
Despite the stereotype of cannabis-induced munchies, regular THC users often have lower body fat and smaller waistlines. One study in the American Journal of Medicine linked marijuana use to lower fasting insulin and reduced obesity risk. While it’s not a replacement for healthy eating, this finding suggests a link between THC and metabolic health.
Medical marijuana, especially the THC-based prescription Dronabinol, has helped patients living with HIV and undergoing Hepatitis C treatment. Research has shown that THC can reduce nausea, boost appetite, and support weight maintenance during therapy. In some UK studies, modest cannabis use was found to enhance adherence to challenging medical regimens, though opinions on liver-related risks remain divided.
Opioid addiction is a growing concern in both the US and UK. Encouragingly, data suggests states with medical cannabis laws see lower opioid overdose rates. Cannabis may ease opiate withdrawal symptoms, offering a less addictive alternative for chronic pain patients. This is particularly relevant for British pain clinics exploring harm-reduction treatments.
Treating Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) with cannabis remains controversial, largely due to ethical constraints on clinical research involving children. However, case studies from Israel report behavioural improvements in autistic children treated with THC-rich formulas. While early and anecdotal, this evidence supports the need for further investigation in the UK.
Although smoking of any kind has drawbacks, THC may offer unexpected respiratory benefits. Cannabis inhalation has been linked to increased lung capacity and improved oxygenation due to vasodilation. Some British researchers are examining how vaporising cannabis may offer benefits without the harmful toxins found in tobacco.
For centuries, cannabis has been used in spiritual and meditative practices. Many UK users report heightened creativity, mindfulness, and emotional awareness when consuming the right THC strains. From facilitating introspection to amplifying compassion, cannabis can deepen the meditative experience.
While much of the science around cannabis is still evolving, these lesser-known THC benefits offer a glimpse into its therapeutic range. Whether it’s improving mood, easing pain, or supporting serious health conditions, cannabis shows real potential.
As Nolan Kane, a geneticist at the University of Colorado, aptly put it: cannabis remains “an embarrassment of riches”—and UK researchers and users alike are only beginning to tap into its full potential.
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