More than 100 forms of arthritis exist and affect approximately 46 million Americans today, all of which may be effectively treated with cannabis.
The two most common types of arthritis are rheumatoid and osteoarthritis;
Osteoarthritis is the result of the wear and tear of daily living. Age, weight and activity level are factors that lead to osteoarthritis. Cannabis is effective in treating the pain and swelling that results from the disease.
Rheumatoid arthritis is the result of inflammation caused by a malfunctioning immune system. An estimated 1.5 million adults had rheumatoid arthritis in 2007. For some time there has been evidence in studies showing the cannabis is effective at both relieving the pain of RA, but also slowing the progression of the disease.
Gout is another form of arthritis caused by crystals that gather in the joints damaging the cartilage. The crystals are a result of high uric acid levels in the blood though high levels don’t always lead to gout.
Lupus is a disease where the body’s immune system attacks joint tissue causing swelling and damage. This form of arthritis is somewhat hereditary and may result not only in joint pain and fatigue but also in fever and rash. Anyone can get lupus, but more than 90% of people with lupus are women.
Arthritis Statistics:
Studies done on mice have shown that THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (Cannabidiol) both have anti-inflammatory effects, and that CBD in many cases has produced improvements in symptoms. While there are many different types of arthritis, pain and swelling are two of the major symptoms of the disease. There is ample evidence to show that the compounds found in cannabis, especially strains high in CBD, are effective at reducing inflammation, mitigating pain, as well as slowing the spread of the disease itself by suppressing the immune system.
Center for Disease Control and Prevention
