Releaf, the UK’s pioneering all-in-one medical cannabis e-clinic, has shared a list of surprising medical conditions that could benefit from medicinal cannabis treatment. 

Since being legalised in 2018, medicinal cannabis is often praised for helping relieve pain and reduce stress for patients. However, thanks to its therapeutic properties, the list of potential conditions it can treat is bigger than you may think. From excessive gas to shift work sleep disorders, Releaf, the UK’s first all-in-one medical cannabis e-clinic, has revealed some common medical conditions you may not know could be treatable with medicinal cannabis.

Excessive gas and bloating

Experiencing excessive gas and bloating can be uncomfortable and impact daily life. Medicinal cannabis has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties that can assist in alleviating gastrointestinal discomfort which is caused by excess gas. These properties can help modulate gut inflammation and relieve individuals facing these issues.

Migraines

Migraines can cause excruciating headaches and disrupt normal activities, sometimes for days. However, many don’t know that medicinal cannabis can relieve migraine sufferers by easing the symptoms or even stopping them from starting. Exploring cannabis-based treatments in consultation with medical experts could offer an alternative approach to managing migraines.

Insomnia and sleep disorders

Sleep disorders such as insomnia can significantly impact well-being and overall health. Medicinal cannabis, specifically strains with higher levels of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), can improve sleep patterns and reduce the time it takes to fall asleep. It’s essential to consult with specialist doctors to discuss a prescription and a treatment plan before taking medicinal cannabis for sleep-related issues.

Shift work disorder

Shift work disorder disrupts the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle due to irregular work hours. It will exhaust sufferers as they cannot adjust to their irregular sleep patterns. Medicinal cannabis, particularly strains with balanced ratios of THC and CBD, can help regulate sleep patterns by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system. It is important to consult with specialist doctors to determine appropriate dosages and treatment plans.

Chronic back pain

Chronic back pain can be debilitating, affecting daily functioning for those who suffer. It’s most typically age-related but can also result from a previous injury. Medicinal cannabis, through its analgesic properties, has the potential to mitigate pain perception and enhance the quality of life for those grappling with back pain.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a common condition which causes joint pain and stiffness. While traditional treatments like painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications are commonly prescribed, they can have adverse side effects with prolonged use. Medicinal cannabis has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce pain and improve joint function for arthritic patients, making it a viable alternative treatment option.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

Inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s Disease and ulcerative colitis, can cause severe discomfort and significantly reduce the quality of life for those affected. Medicinal cannabis can help manage symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhoea and inflammation in IBD patients. Studies suggest that the anti-inflammatory properties of cannabinoids help modulate the immune response in the gut, providing relief to those living with IBD.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a painful condition affecting the uterus lining and is quite common in women. However, many are unaware that medicinal cannabis can help alleviate pain associated with endometriosis. Incorporating medicinal cannabis into treatment strategies can enhance the quality of life for individuals enduring this condition.

Recent research by Releaf has shown that an estimated 29.6 million people (50.2%) in the UK have medical conditions that could respond to medicinal cannabis. Yet, less than 1% of people are thought to receive a medicinal cannabis prescription.

Releaf is trying to break down the stigma attached to cannabis use to enable more patients to access fully regulated and prescribed medicinal cannabis, which can have potentially life-changing benefits.

From skin conditions to neurological disorders, the properties of medicinal cannabis can provide relief for many patients where conventional treatments may fall short.