Preventative healthcare is becoming a key solution to rising medical costs. The approach focuses on avoiding illness and injury before they occur. Common methods include vaccinations, balanced nutrition, and routine medical screenings to detect issues early.
Studies by the Partnership for Preventative Care reveal that preventative healthcare services are significantly underutilized, especially among racial and ethnic minorities in the United States. Researchers found that if Americans adopted just five of the top twelve preventative care services, up to 100,000 lives could be saved annually. But how does cannabis fit into this healthcare approach?
10 Ways Cannabis Supports Preventative Health
1. Pain Relief & Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Cannabis has powerful anti-inflammatory effects, making it a safer alternative to many prescription and over-the-counter medications. Since inflammation contributes to various health conditions, cannabis can help reduce discomfort while preventing chronic issues. Different THC and CBD ratios allow users to find the most effective balance for their specific needs.
2. Digestive Support & Nausea Reduction
Cannabis has anti-emetic properties, meaning it can effectively reduce nausea and vomiting. It relaxes digestive muscles, improving overall gut function. The compound anandamide, known as the “bliss molecule”, helps regulate digestion and metabolism. It has also shown promising results for chemotherapy and HIV/AIDS patients by controlling nausea.
3. Vision Protection Against Glaucoma
Glaucoma leads to blindness due to increased intraocular pressure damaging the optic nerve. The American Glaucoma Society confirms that cannabis effectively reduces eye pressure, making it a potential treatment option. While smoking only provides short-term relief, cannabis is now available in edibles, tinctures, and oils, offering longer-lasting effects without the risks of smoking.
4. Stress & Anxiety Reduction
CBD, a non-psychoactive compound in cannabis, has natural calming effects. It influences dopamine, serotonin, and cortisol levels, creating a balanced emotional state. Research suggests that CBD helps manage stress, anxiety, and even PTSD symptoms, making it a valuable preventative mental health tool.
5. Neuroprotection for Stroke Patients
While some reports link heavy cannabis smoking to ischemic stroke, newer research paints a different picture. The Journal of Cerebral Blood Flow & Metabolism suggests that cannabinoids protect brain cells from stroke-related damage. Studies also indicate that cannabis stimulates brain cell growth, which could help repair areas affected by stroke or disease.
6. Anti-Tumor Properties
Cannabinoids demonstrate the ability to slow tumor growth and prevent cancer cells from spreading. The American Cancer Society reports that THC and CBD have been found to inhibit cancer cell growth in laboratory studies. Cannabis also promotes apoptosis, a process where cancer cells self-destruct, making it a promising complementary treatment in oncology.
7. Cognitive Health & Dementia Prevention
Alzheimer’s disease remains a complex condition, but research suggests cannabis may slow its progression. The compounds in cannabis prevent the buildup of amyloid plaques, which are linked to neurodegeneration. By working with the endocannabinoid system, cannabis may help preserve memory and reduce inflammation in brain cells.
8. Bone Health & Osteoporosis Prevention
Cannabinoids play a role in bone metabolism, aiding the formation of new bone and cartilage cells. Studies published in the Annals of Medicine found that THC and CBD stimulate bone growth while slowing bone loss, making cannabis a valuable aid for osteoporosis prevention.
9. Skin Health & Anti-Aging Effects
Cannabis is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, benefiting the skin when applied topically. CBD-infused creams, serums, and lotions help reduce wrinkles, soothe dry skin, and fight acne. Regular application can promote smoother, healthier skin over time.
10. Sun Protection & UV Defense
Cannabis-derived products contribute to skin protection from sun damage. The THC compound produces sphingolipid ceramide, a fat that supports cell detoxification and repair. Some cannabis-infused sunscreens offer UVB protection, reducing the risk of sunburn and skin cancer.
Cannabis as a Holistic Preventative Treatment
Preventative healthcare emphasizes risk management to detect and address potential health issues before they become severe. Routine checkups, lifestyle adjustments, and natural supplements help individuals maintain overall well-being.
Cannabis plays a growing role in holistic medicine, supporting both physical and mental health. Whether used for pain relief, mental balance, or disease prevention, cannabis offers various consumption methods, including oils, edibles, and topicals.
By incorporating cannabis into preventative care, individuals can take proactive steps toward better health and long-term wellness.