The 10 medical cannabis studies of 2016

The year 2016 was a great year for the Cannabis Legalization Around the World. This year will also be marked by research into its medicinal uses. Many countries have legalized cannabis for medical purposes or have begun to take steps in that direction. Today, we take stock of the 10 Scientific Studies and Discoveries from 2016 on Medical Cannabis.

Cannabis can help combat bipolar disorder

This study was published on June 6 by Massachusetts psychiatrists in the journal Plos one. The study’s researchers noted that people with bipolar disorder who use cannabis are better able to manage their anger and chronic anxiety. Furthermore, the study showed that cannabis users do not suffer from cognitive impairments.

Cannabis is not a gateway drug

A study published by the University of British Columbia, cannabis use does not lead to potentially more dangerous drug use. This old prohibitionist argument is therefore completely outdated. Medical cannabis is, in fact, sometimes used to treat addiction to hard drugs, such as for example, in Maine.

Cannabinoids can slow down osteoarthritis.

A study published in The U.S. National Institute of Health mshows that cannabis may slow the breakdown of joint cartilage.

The legalization of medical cannabis leads to less absenteeism at work.

Of the states that have legalized medical cannabis, the newspaper Health Economics notes a reduction in absenteeism. This is reportedly due to the dramatic drop in absences caused by illness or pain.

CBD as a Treatment for Epilepsy

We also told you about these children with epilepsy who are able to lead a more or less decent life following their treatment with cannabidiol (CBD). Entire families are migrating to states where treatment for this condition is state-of-the-art. The compounds in pure cannabidiol (99.6%) have proven to be particularly effective in treating epilepsy in children.

THC may prevent inflammation of the respiratory tract

A study published in the Biochemical Pharmacology shows that the THC, a psychoactive compound found in cannabis, may be beneficial in preventing inflammation caused by various respiratory diseases such as bronchitis or emphysema.

Cannabis does not affect IQ or school performance.

Teenagers who smoke cannabis have often been seen as future failures. But the journal of Psychopharmacology and the U.S. National Institute of Health contradict this assertion. However, students are apparently less focused during lessons.

Cannabis makes you less aggressive than alcohol

We've already told you about this study showing that consumers of cannabis were less aggressive than alcohol consumers.

Future Treatments for Autism

In Israel, CBD oil-based treatments for people with autism appear to provide conclusive results. The study still needs further refinement, but researchers have observed social improvements following the administration of these treatments.

Medical cannabis may reduce the frequency of migraines in adults

The journal *Pharmacotherapy* reports on the research from the University of Colorado. Of 121 patients suffering from various types of migraines, 103 reported a reduction in their symptoms following treatment with medical cannabis. The number of migraines reportedly decreased from about 10 to fewer than 5 per month

The year 2017 is likely to be just as productive from a scientific standpoint. More and more countries have made it easier to access cannabis for scientific research. In particular, we expect concrete results this year regarding the following medical conditions: post-traumatic stress disorder, autism, and various forms of diabetes.