Many people experience inflammation in their bodies as they age. Chronic inflammation is likely the most common cause of various age-related diseases such as heart attacks, diabetes, strokes, and Alzheimer's – and is probably also responsible for the aging process itself. Cellular inflammation spreads unnoticed and insidiously throughout the body, damaging its cells. THC and CBD, the two best-known cannabinoids in the cannabis plant, not only have anti-inflammatory properties – they also protect the nervous system. Many rheumatism and arthritis patients alleviate their pain with cannabis.
But that's not the only argument in favor of using cannabis in old age. Scientists at the University of Bonn wondered whether the declining activity of the brain could be reversed by stimulating it with cannabis. They gave old mice THC. "Suddenly, the old animals behaved like young ones," the researchers said. Their learning and memory performance was much better than that of untreated old animals.
The core reason for this is that the body's own cannabinoids decrease over the years, causing the brain to age more rapidly. Administering THC actually reverses this process. For about 15 years, researchers in Bonn have been studying the system of receptors that cannabis affects in mice. All their findings have shown that this so-called endocannabinoid system, as part of the nervous system, influences all aging processes.
There is evidence from Israel suggesting that the research findings might also be applicable to humans: Residents of a nursing home suffering from loss of appetite and sleep disorders were treated with cannabis. Many of the patients subsequently became significantly more mentally active. These experiences have led to the investigation of cannabis for geriatric patients under clinically controlled conditions in Israel.
Medical cannabis can help reduce or even eliminate the need for prescription medications
As the body ages, many physical and emotional problems arise, making life more difficult. Seniors often take prescription medications for years, some of which have strong and undesirable side effects. Medical cannabis can complement or even replace painkillers, antidepressants, stimulants, sleep aids, and other medications. It has also been shown that the effectiveness of medications increases when combined with cannabis, reducing the required dosage and lowering the risk of addiction or overdose.
Cannabis is an excellent pain reliever. It is particularly effective for multi-symptomatic conditions such as pain and inflammation in arthritis. It can be used alone or in combination with other medications. Furthermore, cannabis is very suitable for alleviating withdrawal symptoms when discontinuing other medications.
The side effects of medical cannabis are manageable. Due to its blood pressure-lowering effect on the circulatory system, older people are at risk of dizziness and accidents such as falls. The psychotropic effects, which vary in intensity depending on the dosage and cannabis strain, take some getting used to, so it is important to start slowly and cautiously with medical cannabis. This helps avoid overdosing and side effects such as panic attacks.
In general, cannabis does not show any undesirable interactions with other medications, but often mutually enhances the therapeutic effect. Talk to your doctor if you are considering using cannabis. Overall, cannabis is a safe and well-tolerated medication compared to other drugs. However, in cases of heart disease or pre-existing mental health conditions, cannabis should only be used after a thorough benefit-risk assessment.
Cannabis improves mood
The therapeutic potential of cannabis extends beyond its ability to treat pain and promote sleep. Another benefit for users is its mood-enhancing effect. This is particularly advantageous for older adults, who are more prone to depression. Here, cannabis comes into play again. Its use in treating depression is well-researched and recognized. People can laugh again, their immune system is strengthened, stress is reduced, pain is alleviated, and muscles are relaxed. Research shows that laughter can extend lifespan. Furthermore, cannabis use fosters sociability and helps maintain social connections.
For these reasons, and due to increased acceptance resulting from diverse cannabinoid research findings, many older people have now begun to treat their ailments with cannabis. Often, their grandchildren make them aware of the medicinal effects of cannabis. More and more seniors are seeking information and stocking up on products in legal CBD shops. However, especially in cases of severe pain, cancer, or multiple illnesses, the cannabinoid CBD alone is insufficient. The active ingredients of the entire cannabis plant, particularly the illegal cannabinoid THC, are required. To obtain this, a general practitioner must apply for a special permit from the Federal Office of Public Health. This is a very complex process, and it is difficult to find a doctor who will support the patient in this endeavor. Many doctors still do not take medical cannabis seriously.
Especially for age-related ailments, cannabis is an excellent remedy with moderate side effects. It is an ancient medicine and deserves a second chance.
