marijuana for PTSD

How Medical Marijuana For PTSD Work?

PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) is a psychiatric disorder that is caused by disturbing episodes. It’s common among veterans who have a history of military combat. Many PTSD patients prefer using cannabis for managing their symptoms. Marijuana is proven beneficial for providing relaxation, calming effects in the body, thus promoting mental wellness.

Related- How Medical Marijuana Interacts With The Brain?

In this post, we are going to discuss if you can use cannabis as an effective treatment for PTSD. And, what’s the easiest way to apply for a medical marijuana card.

How Cannabis Works?

PTSD occurs due to a traumatic event. It can be a medical condition, such as anxiety, depression, etc., combat exposure, sexual violence, an accident, loss of a loved one, or physical assault. Patients with this condition experience recurring, distressing memories, nightmares about the events, and flashbacks. They usually avoid visiting places or meeting people that remind them about their traumatic events.

There are no effective medications that can help ease PTSD symptoms completely. However, research says that the endocannabinoid system plays a key role in the development of PTSD. It has been found that patients with PTSD had lower levels of anandamide—a neurotransmitter involved in memory, motivation, and movement control. And, anandamide activates the same receptors in the endocannabinoid system that are activated by THC and other phytocannabinoids in cannabis.

In other words, endocannabinoid deficiency may play a role in the development of PTSD. This means, the body stops producing enough endocannabinoids, which bind to receptors to perform certain functions in the body.

Patients with PTSD are often anxious about the traumatic events they have experienced in the past. This can result in sleep problems. Medical studies have found that cannabis can help patients reduce the total time to fall asleep and sleep longer. In other words, marijuana promotes deep sleep while restoring different bodily functions.

Related- Interesting Facts About CBD Everyone Should Learn About

According to a study published in 2008, taking high-THC strains can help reduce REM sleep. This means you are able to get deep sleep and reduce dreams. Moreover, it can help reduce nightmares, thus improving the quality of life.

Unlike the commonly prescribed PTSD medications, such as antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs, cannabis provides natural results.

Top Strains For PTSD Sufferers

Blue Dream

One of the most popular strains in cannabis legalized states in the United States. This balanced hybrid strain provides euphoric effects and is perfect for both experienced users and beginners. CBD content is between 0.1-0.2 percent while THC content is 17-24 percent.

OG Kush

OG stands for Ocean Grown. It delivers pleasant and euphoric effects, making it a perfect strain for PTSD sufferers. It’s a high THC strain (20-27 percent) while CBD content is about 0.2 percent. OG Kush is also beneficial for fighting depression and lack of appetite.

Master Kush

It’s known for delivering full-body relaxation and boosting concentration at work. It contains THC content of 20 percent while CBD content is 1 percent. For PTSD sufferers, Master Kush can help boost sleep.

Harlequin

Harlequin is a high-CBD strain, which delivers amazing mood-stabilizing effects. It also contains a considerable amount of THC, so this strain also provides intoxicating effects. It’s perfect for day time and night time use.

Accessing Medical Marijuana Legally

If you want to use cannabis for PTSD, talk to a board-certified doctor who will analyze your condition for a medical marijuana card. They may ask you for your medical history for verification purposes. Once approved, you will get your MMJ card.

Now, you can apply for your MMJ recs online in just 10 minutes. Here’s the process-

  • Fill a simple form online
  • See a doctor through the HIPAA-compliant software
  • Receive MMJ recs in PDF format via email

Final Thoughts

Cannabis can help PTSD patients promote relaxation, boost sleep, etc. Medical studies have found that endocannabinoid deficiency can result in the development of PTSD, and marijuana can help correct it. Marijuana cannabinoids bind to receptors in the endocannabinoid system, thus improving mood, sleep, and other functions. Top strains for PTSD sufferers are OG Kush, Blue Dream, Master Kush, and Harlequin. Different methods of consuming cannabis are smoking, vaping, edibles, tinctures, and topicals.

Talk to a licensed doctor to apply for a medical marijuana card today.