Can Cannabis Help Treat Brain After Concussion?

A concussion is a brain injury usually caused by a blow to the head. Sub-concussions can also appear in case there are repeated minor assaults to the head and jowl. Would it not be great to prevent brain damage from blows before it occurs? Can any medicine speed up brain’s healing processes? Scientists believe cannabis can.

Marijuana is a proven treatment for a wide range of different diseases and conditions, such as cancer, epilepsy, HIV/AIDS, and diabetes. Moreover, the unique properties of weed can be really helpful for head traumas and brain injuries.

Neuroprotection After Traumas

A 2013 research showed that the endocannabinoid system played an important role in the brain’s ability to heal itself. It is the pathway in which marijuana interacts with the body. The study demonstrates that cannabinoids can protect our brain from nerve cell damage after injuries and traumas.

Reduction of Brain Inflammation

Cannabis is also famous for its neuroprotective antioxidants that are responsible for reducing brain inflammation and preventing stress-related cell damage. In a 2013 study, Israeli scientists found that microdoses of THC could reduce brain swelling in rodent models.

Pre-Treatment With Marijuana Can Prevent Brain Damage

Pre-treatment with cannabis can potentially help protect people of certain occupations, such as professional horseback riders, athletes, boxers, and others, from possible concussions. A 2014 study found that people with brain traumas who had higher levels of THC in their systems at the moment of theaccident were less likely to die from brain injuries.

Cannabis Can Help With Post-Concussion Syndrome

Post-concussion syndrome (PCS) is a condition that can include headaches, fatigue, noise and light sensitivity, anxiety, and insomnia that follow a concussion. These symptoms can last up to several months after the brain injury. However, cannabis can help deal with these unpleasant effects. A 2012 rodent study suggested that marijuana treatments might improve cognitive performance and memory after stress-related neuropsychiatric conditions.

Although more research on cannabis impact on PCS and concussion is needed, many scientists believe that the herb has a serious brain-healing potential.