7 Cannabis Oil Benefits & Uses

Cannabis oil has been used for centuries to treat a variety of health conditions. It comes from the cannabis sativa plant, bred for its sticky glands called trichomes. Trichomes contain high amounts of THC, which has psychoactive properties. Hemp oil also comes from the cannabis sativa. Made by pressing hemp seeds, hemp oil contains only trace amounts of THC, but offers many health benefits as well. Thanks to its powerful anti-inflammatory and healing properties, cannabis oil benefits include the ability to help treat multiple sclerosis, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disorders and even cancer. (1)

Cannabis Oil Benefits

1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Cannabis oil benefits include the ability to reduce chronic stress and anxiety. The oil works by releasing feel-good hormones in the brain to relax the mind and body. In a 2013 study, researchers found that treating patients with cannabinoid, a compound in cannabis, can help regulate the emotional response after a traumatic experience. In a study published in the American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy, researchers found that cannabis oil benefits include the ability to help treat military veterans with PTSD. (2)

2. Alters Appetite

Cannabis oil benefits include the ability to alter appetite, which can help those who are struggling with obesity or those who are trying to gain weight. According to a study published in the International Weekly Journal of Science, cannabis stimulates the release of hormones that promote hunger. Cannabis can also suppress appetite, depending on which hormones are stimulated.

3. Promotes Eye Health

Cannabis oil benefits include the ability to promote eye health. Studies have shown that the oil can help naturally treat glaucoma and macular degeneration. It works by lowering intraocular pressure, which plays a role in optic nerve damage in glaucoma patients.

4. Reduces Pain

Cannabis has been used for centuries for natural pain relief. Cannabis oil benefits include the ability to relieve pain by inhibiting neuronal transmission in pain pathways. The oil's pain relief benefits can help patients struggling with arthritis, fibromyalgia and other forms of chronic pain. (3)

5. Boosts Heart Health

Thanks to its antioxidant properties, cannabis oil benefits include the ability to boost heart health. Research has shown that cannabis can help treat a wide range of cardiovascular conditions, including coronary heart disease, stroke, hypertension and heart attacks. In a 2014 study, researchers found that cannabis can help naturally lower blood pressure.

6. Protects Skin

Cannabis oil benefits include the ability to protect the skin from damage. Cannabinoids play a role in lipid production, which can help combat acne and dry skin. Cannabis oil also helps fight free radical damage that can lead to dark spots and wrinkles.

7. Prevents Cancer

Research suggests that cannabis oil benefits may include the ability to prevent cancer. Studies have shown that cannabis has anticancer properties. It can help reduce the size of tumors and alleviate pain, nausea, weakness and lack of appetite.