The use of cannabis to treat medical illnesses such as epilepsy is still a contentious topic. Marijuana was used to cure various health ailments in China around 2,700 B.C., according to the Journal of the International League Against Epilepsy. Gout, menstruation difficulties, constipation, nausea, fever, vomiting, fever, and other ailments were among them. Furthermore, they stated that epilepsy is a prevalent neurological disorder. This condition affects about 3 million people in the United States.
Medical marijuana may be used to treat a variety of ailments, including epilepsy. It’s one of the ailments that respond well to cannabis. It provided relief to many people with epilepsy and seizures. Some people use marijuana to manage their disorders.
What You Should Know About Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a long-term central nervous system condition. This produces abnormalities in the brain, resulting in seizures, odd actions or sensations, and loss of awareness. A person with this illness may have two spontaneous seizures unrelated to circumstances such as severely low blood sugar levels or alcohol withdrawal.
Anyone, male or female, of any group, age, or race, can develop this condition. Seizures manifest themselves in a variety of ways. Some people only look blankly for a few seconds when suffering attacks, while others frequently move their legs and arms. A single seizure event does not diagnose epilepsy. Medication or surgery may be used to manage seizures; if not, long-term therapy is required. Fortunately, some children can grow out of their epilepsy.
Seizures in epilepsy may be linked to brain damage or run in the family. The reason, however, is still unknown. Many persons with epilepsy have more than one type of seizure and may exhibit indications of neuronal abnormalities. The testing is done in the Electroencephalogram or EEG and the family history, which might sometimes resemble certain persons who have epilepsy. In this instance, the condition known as particular epilepsy can be used.
Seizure symptoms impact the body, although the electrical impulses that cause the symptoms occur in the brain. The effect’s location, distribution, and extent, as well as its endurance, all have an impact. This has the effect of determining a person’s outcome. Epilepsy and seizures might jeopardize one’s ability to work, form relationships, and engage in other social activities. The care and perception of epileptic patients are, in fact, more critical than the seizures themselves.
What is Medical Cannabis
Cannabis is known by various names, the most well-known of which is “marijuana.” Meanwhile, the Latin name “cannabis” was coined by pharmacists and botanists. Returning to the name “marijuana,” this refers to the female flower and leaves of the cannabis plant. Botanists and pharmaceutical businesses most commonly use the Latin name.
Medicinal cannabis, on the other hand, refers to the use of the entire marijuana plant, including compounds, for medical purposes. It specifically employs cannabis Sativa or Indica to relieve symptoms and treat specific health problems and disorders. For many years, these plants have been utilized for medicinal purposes in a variety of nations. To put it another way, it is not primarily for recreational purposes. To your knowledge, the US Food and Drug Administration has authorized Epidiolex to treat Lennox-Gastaut syndrome in kids aged two and up. Medical product manufacturers develop their products following GMP guidelines. GMPs are guidelines that cover all elements of manufacturing and are certified and reviewed by designated bodies. If a product does not have this certificate, it signifies it is not authorized or approved for medical use. Watch this video to see how Epidiolex can benefit people with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
This is a type of chemical that deals with marijuana’s psychological impacts. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, its activity is quite similar to that of cannabinoids generated naturally by the body.
This cannabinoid possesses receptors in some brain regions that are associated with memory, pleasure, health, thinking, and time perception. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, THC adheres to receptors, activates, and impacts brain activities. THC is one among several chemicals found in the resin. The marijuana plant’s glands produce it. Many of these glands are located in the reproductive region of the plant.
CBD
This is short for cannabidiol. It’s an ingredient that the natural products industry and researchers are focusing on. This is a distinct characteristic of the cannabis plant, and it is a significant non-psychoactive component in marijuana. This implies that it has a minor impact on the brain, particularly cognitive function, and does not provide a “high” experience.
Cannabidiol relieves muscular spasms and discomfort while also keeping a person alert. It also aids in the treatment of epilepsy, anxiety, and inflammation. It also has anti-aging properties and preserves brain cells and neurons.
Lennox–Gastaut Syndrome and Cannabis
Epilepsy with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome is a dangerous condition. This is most common in infancy or early childhood. Children with this condition experience tonic, atonic, and atypical absence seizures. It is characterized by the stiffness of limb muscles as well as other body regions. Additionally, they may have cognitive dysfunctions as well as delays in the development of their behavior. Various variables contribute to this condition; however, in other cases, no reason has been established. Furthermore, it is challenging to treat since it is resistant to anti-seizure medications.
Fortunately, researchers have discovered that the body’s equilibrium is maintained by the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a significant network in the body. Seizures are reported to be reduced by doing so. This cannabinoid helps to control the severity of attacks. These cannabinoids interact with the ECS’s cannabinoid receptors, primarily the CB1 receptor, and it decreases excitability and convulsions by dampening neurotransmitter synthesis. These findings imply that cannabinoids generated from marijuana have a lot of promise for treating Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
Medical marijuana can treat several symptoms of Lennox-Gastaut, including the following:
- Seizures
Many people who have epilepsy or other forms of seizures have found relief from smoking cannabis. They use marijuana to successfully cope with and manage their attacks if they cannot tolerate actual treatments. O.A.T, Kushberry, and Grapefruit Kush are some of the strains they employ.
- Reduced Appetite from medicines
Marijuana used therapeutically to treat Lennox-Gastaut syndrome increases hunger by stimulating metabolism. It causes you to get “the munchies.” That implies you’ll be hungry after you’ve used cannabis. This is only effective for youngsters who have lost their appetite due to medicines. Maui bubble gift, platinum purple kush, and pure kush are three particularly beneficial strains.
- Poor Sleep
Insomnia in children can harm their day-to-day lives. Medicines for sleeplessness can lead to addiction and have adverse side effects that a youngster cannot handle. Using cannabis is unquestionably the most excellent method to do so without harming anyone, particularly youngsters. Insomnia has its strains. Granddaddy Purple, Purple Urkle, Tahoe OG Kush, and Godfather OG are some available strains.
- Depression and Anxiety
The 55% of epilepsy patients who suffer from sadness or anxiety do so at some time. These significantly reduce the quality of life and increase the frequency of seizures. Anti-epileptic medicines might aggravate the situation. Some of the strains listed below can aid with anxiety and sadness. Pineapple Express, Harlequin, Jack Herer, and Girl Scout Cookies are examples of this.
Dravet Syndrome and Cannabis
This is a problem with the human brain, and it’s an uncommon epileptic encephalopathy caused by a hereditary mutation. It begins in the first year of a healthy baby’s life. Polymorphic epilepsy in babies was the last name for this condition. The illness starts in childhood and lasts a lifetime.
When seizures first start, newborns’ brains may grow normally, but impairments and other syndrome-related issues might arise if they persist. Most of the time, this is misdiagnosed since the newborn appears to be expected.
In addition, 8 out of 10 people with this disease have a gene mutation, leading to ion channel abnormalities. This has an impact on how the brain functions. This isn’t an inherited condition; instead, it’s a novel mutation. In the vast majority of instances, seizure medication does not affect the seizures.
Epidiolex, a cannabinoid, was authorized for seizures in two and above people who have Dravet Syndrome. A total of 120 children and young adults with Dravet Syndrome and medication resistance took part in the study. They were given CBD or a placebo while taking their medication. Seizures were reduced by at least 50% in 43% of patients who used CBD. CBD users made about 5% of those who were seizure-free. Watch this video to learn how CBD oil can aid in the treatment of epilepsy.
Video Source: Mount Sinai Health System
Strains used for Epilepsy and Seizures
- Charlotte’s Web
This is the most well-known strain in the treatment of seizures so far. Charlotte Figi, a little child with Dravet Syndrome, a rare kind of epilepsy, was the inspiration for the name. This strain was created just for her. It contains 0.3 percent THC and a lot of CBD. This is ideal for administering epilepsy medication. It is used to treat children all around the world.
This was created specifically for Charlotte by Colorado farmers, and the good news is that the THC concentration of the strain was significantly reduced. At the same time, the CBD levels were increased considerably. As a result, there was a relaxing “body high” that had no mental side effects.
Her thousands of seizures each month have decreased to merely a few times after she began using the high-concentrated cannabis oil. This strain has long and dense trichomes with buds all around it, giving it the appearance of a web. Although Charlotte’s Web strain is extremely rare, it is being sought by medicinal marijuana communities. Its main strength comes from the high CBD level.
- Green Crack
Green Crack is ideal for when you need medicine during the day. It has an impact that lasts all day. It allows you to focus intensely while it works. It also helps you feel energized, giving you mental concentration and a buzz.
This strain is a balanced combination that works on the body and mind to lift your spirits while relaxing your muscles. Green Cracks improves your concentration so you can complete your chores and avoid missing work.
- Cannatonic
This strain is effective in the treatment of seizures, headaches, epilepsy, and other ailments. Because it contains a modest quantity of THC (typically less than 6%) and CBD (generally between 6% and 17%), it produces a less hazy and unpleasant high.
This is a soothing and robust blend that improves mental focus. This improves one’s mood and gives the impression of being on a cloud. It makes you feel good and provides you with more energy. It’s calming and relaxing, making it ideal for daytime usage because it doesn’t deplete your energy or make you sluggish or sleepy.
- White Widow
This is from the Netherlands, and it’s known for making people feel calm, creative, and joyful. As it heals insomnia, lack of appetite, pain, and epilepsy, the combination of Sativa from South Africa and Indica from South India produces a beautiful sensation of peace and contentment. It has demonstrated its medicinal and therapeutic abilities.
It was named one of the most popular strains in 1995. It’s a cross between Sativa and Indica with a minor Indica dominance. The indica provides complete body relaxation, while the sativa provides the euphoric effect. To put it another way, it produces completely balanced outcomes and is helpful in the treatment of cancer and epilepsy.
- Grape Ape
Most users choose this since it provides the most calming and relaxing benefits, especially for practicing yoga and taking medicine. It gives you a chilled and comfortable sensation by resolving your mood and anxiety issues.
This strain is a hybrid of Skunk, Afghani, and Mendocino Purps. The name comes from the distinctive grape-like scent and colors. It causes heaviness in the brain and limbs, inducing relaxation and tranquillity in both the mind and the body. THC content ranges from 15% to 23%.
Ways to Consume Medical Marijuana
Using marijuana for medical purposes is not the same as popping a pill. Marijuana has a complicated structure, and it may be used in a variety of ways. Users in the medical and recreational fields can select the most advanced method to provide them with the best results and happiness.
- Smoking
The marijuana is dried before being folded into slim cigarettes. It is breathed with the chemicals, and the effects are immediately felt. It may be inserted into a pipe. Cannabis smoking relieves pain and nausea quickly, and this is a low-cost option.
The smoking dose is more consistent in terms of consistency. The smoker inhales the therapeutic properties of marijuana while the herb is burnt. The second-hand smoke is returned to the user through the use of a bong or pipe.
- Edibles
This is one of the options available to customers. They can have cookies or brownies, but they can also have crackers, chews, chocolate bars, lollipops, and even ice cream this time. Edibles are pleasant, and you have complete control over your dosage. The effects are more long-lasting. Edibles offer better palatability for first-time consumers.
- Topicals
Topical solutions include salves, sprays, ointments, and lotions. These are used for soreness of muscle, pain in the joint, and other problems. Topicals don’t give a high feeling, but they are very effective in pain relief. Medical marijuana ingredients are infused in the topicals. They are applied to the skin near the pain or inflammation. The skin absorbs the effects.
- Vaporizing
This method is comparable to smoking. When opposed to smoking, vaporizing (or vaping) creates the chemical at a lower temperature. Furthermore, the flavor of vapor differs from that of charred food. In addition, the fumes from marijuana protect your lungs.
Vaporizers come in a variety of forms and sizes. Preheat the gadget to the temperature specified on the package. After that, there’s the cannabis extract. After that, push the button and take a deep breath. Vaporizers are more expensive, and the battery needs to be charged before use. Vapes that are portable and convenient are available.
- Tinctures
For relief, this substance is squirted or sprayed into the mouth. Tinctures and sprays are made out of a combination of alcohol, oil, and cannabis extracts. They’re placed in tiny bottles, and this does not irritate the lungs in any way. You have complete control over the dose. The flavor of this strain is modest. These take a while to experience the effects, and they’re a touch pricey for large dosages. You can gradually increase the dose till you discover the appropriate one.
After six weeks of soaking marijuana in a combination of alcohol and water, tinctures are made. The plant’s components are transported to the liquid. Tinctures come in small dosages; one or two mL is placed beneath the tongue with an eyedropper or mixed with food, although absorption is slow.
Store the tincture for a long time to preserve its efficacy, although it will evaporate if exposed to the air for an extended period. As a result, placing it beneath the tongue is effective. Because it directly enters the bloodstream, the effects are noticed right away.
- Suppositories
The active substances are promptly absorbed by the colons, as are the consequences. It can be time-consuming and inconvenient. It will, however, cause you to avoid smoking and skip the majority of your digestive system.
The cannabis is placed in the rectum. Although it may be humiliating, many patients believe this since the results are immediate and prolonged.
After that, gloves must be worn, and hands must be washed. It comes in two strengths plus a half-strength to reduce the dosage. They must be stored in the refrigerator. Suppositories are a fantastic option for persons who have difficulty swallowing and wish to maintain their lungs healthy.
- Dabbing
Dabbing is a more advanced technology designed for more experienced users. Cannabis vaporizes fast and delivers a concentrated dosage. These days, they’re manufactured with butane or another solvent, as well as carbon dioxide. Budder, butane hash oil, wax, and shatter are all sticky oils that contain THC. This has a significant impact.
Inhale after dabbing a dab of marijuana onto the heated surface and using a lighter or flame, heat a little metal or any glass. It has to be quite heated for it to evaporate. Relief from the most severe symptoms is one of the advantages.
- Transdermal Patches
You can apply the patch to a hairless, clean region, the inside of your waistband, the top of your foot, or the ankle. These patches are the most acceptable option if you don’t want to smoke pot. Marijuana patches are adhered to the skin using a little piece of adhesive material.
These patches transfer active chemicals to the bloodstream through the skin. As a result, practically every area of the body feels relieved. Medication is delivered to all layers of the skin, including the bloodstream, using transdermal patches. In general, there is a relief. The fact that the entire body absorbs the dosage is a plus. It implies that you will receive the natural outcome. The drug does not pass to the digestive system or the bloodstream with this patch.
- Ingesting Fresh Cannabis
This is what it’s like to consume raw marijuana. It retains all of the components that might otherwise be lost due to drying or heating. Because it doesn’t taste great, you may add it to juice or smoothies. The highest health advantages come from drinking it immediately away.
Fifteen leaves of fresh marijuana, which is a standard dose, can be used. When you eat it raw, there are no chemicals left behind, and it is in its purest form.
- Marijuana Beverages
These are marijuana-infused drinks. Wine, tea, and soda are all examples of this. They are non-smoking or vapor-free alternatives. These drinks are slow-acting and have a long-lasting effect on stress and anxiety. Make your tea and see what you can come up with. Begin by steeping the leaves, stems, and buds for roughly one hour in hot boiling water. To dissolve THC from the plant, use alcohol or oil.
Conclusion:
Cannabis is unquestionably valuable for the treatment of seizure diseases such as epilepsy. With the discovery and FDA approval of Epidiolex, marijuana has proved to be a breakthrough therapy for epilepsy, healing millions of individuals worldwide based on research and anecdotal evidence.