Multiple Sclerosis Center at the University of California
New Study Confirms Benefits of Marijuana in Treating MS Symptoms
Thousands, if not millions have been able to confirm that cannabis has helped provide them relief in a world where top medical care is often reserved for those with the right job or bank account. Conveniently lawmakers now often say “there is not enough research” to support the idea that marijuana is an effective pain and psychological substance, though they rail against any research being performed in the area. Like any controversial issue, the opinion of the people is discarded or minimized in favor of men in white coats and links to the pharmaceutical industry. Many refuse to listen to our friends, family, and countless others who can only provide their honest and truthful experiences with marijuana. Of course our lawmakers condescend them and say their testimonies on their own bodies is insufficient and unqualified. Who is better suited to speak on matters of their body than the individual?
This is not to the ignore the science at all as it is crucial to understanding why patients are feeling better. Personal stories regarding multiple sclerosis relief have been around for some time but now there is official scientific data to back it up. Many news outlets including msnbc.com are reporting on study that was published in Canadian Medical Association Journal and performed at Multiple Sclerosis Center at the University of California, San Diego. The study showed marijuana reducing MS symptoms including pain and spasticity. Marijuana was shown to combat pain that was resistant to conventional MS treatments. The study involved 30 individuals with over half of the participants requiring walking aids. One drawback, according to researchers, was that cognitive ability was reduced after patients smoked marijuana and some patients complained of feeling “too high.”
THC is only one of many cannabinoids and is typically associated with the “high” feeling. Research into cannabinoids is showing so much promise and while opponents will jump all over the fact that some participants in the study were uncomfortable, the larger picture is so bright. Pain and spasticity was reduced and future marijuana strains have the potential to reduce pain without making patients feel overwhelmed or “stoned.” Another cannabinoid, CBD, has shown great promise in this area.
The marijuana reform movement has been seeking to highlight the science behind what advocates claim. The breakthrough on MS is significant and will require further examination and hopefully other conditions will receive the necessary funding to be properly evaluated. While the science of marijuana is fascinating it is not always accessible to everyone. With the help of labs such as The Werc Shop, a sophisticated but approachable label system could change this in the future. However, for now, we need to stop ignoring our peers. For the unrefined scientific mind, personal experience is what we are able to recognize and serves as the greatest evidence.
We may not understand how to identify cannabinoids under a microscope (though we are extremely appreciative of those who do) but we do notice when a person feels better and when their quality of life improves. Lawmakers have created a scenario where we ignore these people and say no other evidence is available, however their mistake lies in the fact that WE ARE compassionate and see mounting evidence piling up one patient testimony at a time. With personal stories and science now supporting marijuana’s varied benefits, where will opponents turn to next?