Comparing Marijuana and 5 Popular Herbal Remedies : According to a recent estimate, as many as 80% of people worldwide rely on herbal medicine, which can be obtained through specialized herbalists or informal community networks. For certain individuals, cannabis is considered a form of herbal medicine, providing an alternative means of assisting the body without the use of lab-produced pharmaceuticals.
This article aims to compare marijuana to five of the most popular herbal remedies currently available on the market. By highlighting the similarities and differences between these substances, readers can determine which one is best suited to their particular needs.
What Is an Herbal Remedy?
In essence, an herbal remedy refers to using plants as a form of medicine, with people believing that these plants can either prevent or cure certain illnesses. Unlike pharmacy medications, herbal remedies do not undergo rigorous testing and are not regulated.
Although most medical communities recognize the potential benefits of herbal remedies, they often emphasize that these treatments are not equivalent to traditional medicine. Furthermore, they caution that just because a substance is derived from nature does not necessarily mean it is safe
Despite the lack of regulation and testing, significant research has been conducted on the use of herbal medicine. For instance, a study revealed that the primary motivation for using herbal treatments is to address illnesses. Those who opt for herbal remedies often do so due to dissatisfaction with traditional medicine or favorable past experiences with herbs.
It is worth noting that herbal medicine was the primary healthcare approach in many Western nations until approximately the past 50-100 years. Moreover, roughly 25% of all pharmaceutical medicines are derived from plants
How Marijuana Compares To Herbal Medicine
Marijuana, derived from the cannabis plant, is a naturally occurring substance that many people use for medicinal purposes. As such, it could technically be classified as an herbal remedy. What sets marijuana apart, however, is the extensive research conducted on its therapeutic properties. With further study, it could eventually be classified as an herbal medicine, subject to regulations governing the development of drugs that prevent or treat human diseases. In the following sections, we will compare marijuana with a few of the most popular herbal remedies currently available
Ginger
Ginger, also known as Gingerols, is a flowering plant that has been used for both culinary and medicinal purposes for thousands of years. It originates from Southeast Asia and is well-known for its ability to alleviate pain. While the evidence is somewhat inconsistent, one study demonstrated that osteoarthritis patients experienced benefits comparable to those of diclofenac, a popular anti-inflammatory drug. Additionally, ginger extract consumption may also alleviate musculoskeletal and rheumatic pain, according to another study.
Ginger is a popular choice due to its widespread availability and minimal side effects. It can be added to everyday meals or brewed into a cup of ginger tea for a soothing effect. Furthermore, ginger is packed with nutrients and bioactive compounds, and has been linked to pain relief, particularly for menstrual pain, improved brain function, and healthy digestion
Ginseng
Ginseng, a tonic derived from the plant of the same name that is native to Asia and North America, has been renowned for its ability to relax the mind and enhance various bodily functions for centuries. Some of the key benefits of this herbal remedy are listed below:
- Frequently used for its aphrodisiac properties
- Reportedly lowers stress levels
- May boost the immune system Linked to a decrease in inflammation
- Contains antioxidants.
- In a test-tube study, a specific type of ginseng extract was found to decrease inflammation and improve antioxidant activity in the skin cells of individuals with eczema.
- Aids in weight loss Improves lung function Increases energy levels
Turmeric
The use of turmeric is prevalent in the history of Chinese and Indian traditional medicine. It is similar to ginger and contains curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and is a well-known herbal remedy for pain. Although high doses of curcumin can cause mild stomach upset, adding turmeric to your everyday meals is generally safe. For better absorption, try taking it with a small amount of healthy fat and black pepper, which can increase its bioavailability by up to 2000%. Here are some other potential benefits of this herbal remedy:
- May improve brain function and reduce the risk of brain diseases like Alzheimer’s by increasing the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)
- May lower the risk of heart disease
- Could help with arthritis
- May be helpful in relieving depression
Chamomile
Chamomile, derived from the Asteraceae plant family, has been used for both medicinal and infusion purposes for centuries. It offers a plethora of benefits. Some of its possible advantages include:
- Known for promoting restful sleep and combating insomnia
- Boosts the immune system
- Useful in alleviating cold and flu symptoms
- Helpful in reducing menstrual pain
- Reduces muscle spasms
- Effective in treating mild-to-moderate pain
- Helpful in reducing stress
- Possesses anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial for skin conditions
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba, a Chinese tree that has been utilized in the Western world for centuries, is believed by many to be excellent for enhancing concentration, memory, and overall mental and physical wellbeing. Below are some of the potential benefits of this herbal remedy:
- Enhanced memory and focus
- Rich in powerful antioxidants
- Has anti-inflammatory properties that assist to reduce inflammation
- May alleviate headache and migraine pain
- May reduce the chances of developing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia
- Helps improve eye health and maintain vision
- Can relieve symptoms of ADHD
- Has aphrodisiac properties
- Can be helpful in fighting anxiety and depression
Comparing Possible Health Benefits of Marijuana
All of the herbal remedies mentioned earlier have been studied extensively, and cannabis has shown potential to provide similar benefits. Following are some of the most relevant studies:
Pain and inflammation
Cannabis has been used by many people to alleviate pain, including headaches and migraines. A 2010 study found that the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is involved in pain processing and that using cannabinoids may help manage pain associated with migraines. Marijuana has possible anti-inflammatory properties, and many studies have shown its effectiveness in reducing inflammation and pain. Neurodegenerative diseases Research has shown that cannabis may have therapeutic benefits for neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia.
A 2010 study concluded that there were various therapeutic benefits to using cannabis for these types of diseases. A 2020 study found that non-intoxicating cannabinoids like CBD could be effective in managing the symptoms of conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Cannabis for Mood Disorders
Numerous studies suggest that cannabis can help alleviate anxiety, stress, and depression symptoms in patients with mood disorders such as anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Cannabis as an Aphrodisiac
Many individuals report improved sexual experiences with certain strains of cannabis, which can reduce anxiety, decrease pain, improve sensitivity, and enhance overall enjoyment. Studies also suggest that marijuana may lead to better orgasms and increased sex drive.
Cannabis for Improved Memory
In a 2013 study, researchers found that certain strains of cannabis could impair or improve memory. Cannabis strains with a high CBD and low THC content may be beneficial for individuals seeking improved focus and memory.
Other Benefits of Cannabis
- Cannabis can help lower ocular eye pressure and may have other eye health benefits for individuals with glaucoma.
- It may also boost the immune system and have potential use as a daily supplement.
- Studies suggest that cannabis may have possible benefits for cardiovascular disorders.
- Indica strains, in particular, may be helpful for insomnia and pain-related sleep issues, and CBD may have a modulating effect on sleep.
- As a potent anti-spasmodic, cannabis has gained prominence for its ability to help with muscle spasms, and the FDA has approved Epidiolex, a CBD-based drug, to treat rare epilepsy in children
Conclusion
Based on the available evidence, cannabis appears to offer a wide range of potential benefits and may even possess the combined abilities of multiple traditional herbal remedies. However, it is currently legal for recreational and/or medicinal use in only a limited number of countries, including some U.S. states. Even in these locations, dispensaries are not permitted to make claims about the plant’s ability to cure, treat, or prevent disease. As with any herbal remedy, cannabis carries the risk of side effects, which can be exacerbated when it is not used responsibly or obtained from an unregulated source. Therefore, it is essential to discuss your use of cannabis or other herbal remedies with a healthcare professional, especially if you are taking traditional medications, as drug interactions can occur. We suggest getting a medical marijuana card online or through a local clinic near you in states where cannabis is legal such as Ohio, California, etc.
Comparing Marijuana and 5 Popular Herbal Remedies
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