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Important: This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Cannabis and cannabinoid research is ongoing, and evidence varies significantly depending on the cannabinoid, product, dose, condition, and individual. Cannabis should not be considered a treatment or cure for a health condition without guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.
Cannabis has been studied for a variety of potential health applications, particularly because of its cannabinoids such as THC and CBD. Some cannabinoid-based medicines have established medical uses, while research into other potential benefits is still developing. (NCCIH)
When people talk about the potential health benefits of cannabis, it’s important to distinguish between documented medical uses, early research, and personal experiences.
Cannabinoids interact with biological systems in the body, including the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Researchers are studying how these interactions may influence processes such as pain perception, appetite, nausea, sleep, and neurological function.
However, evidence for one cannabis product or cannabinoid cannot automatically be applied to all cannabis products.
Cannabis and cannabinoid medicines have been studied for different types of chronic pain, including neuropathic pain.
Research reviewed by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) suggests that cannabinoids may provide modest benefits for some types of chronic pain, although side effects are also more common than with placebo in some studies. More research is needed to understand how cannabis compares with other pain-management options. (NCCIH)
Certain cannabinoid medicines have been studied for nausea and vomiting associated with cancer chemotherapy.
According to NCCIH, prescription cannabinoid medicines such as dronabinol and nabilone have demonstrated benefits for chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting. These are specific medical applications and should not be taken to mean that cannabis is appropriate for treating every cause of nausea. (NCCIH)
Cannabinoid medicines have also been studied for loss of appetite and weight loss associated with HIV/AIDS. Some prescription cannabinoid medicines are approved for this purpose in the United States. (NCCIH)
Research has examined cannabinoid-based medicines for symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis, particularly spasticity and pain.
Some studies have found improvements in certain patient-reported symptoms, although results vary depending on the treatment and outcome being measured. (NCCIH)
CBD has received significant research attention in epilepsy.
A purified form of CBD, Epidiolex, has been approved by the U.S. FDA for seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome. This is an example of a specific prescription cannabinoid medicine and should not be confused with over-the-counter CBD products. (NCCIH)
Cannabis and cannabinoids have been studied for sleep problems, particularly among people with conditions such as chronic pain or multiple sclerosis.
Some studies report improvements in sleep quality or sleep disturbances, but it remains uncertain whether cannabis directly improves sleep or whether people sleep better because another symptom has improved. Evidence for cannabis in people who have sleep problems without another underlying condition remains uncertain. (NCCIH)
CBD is non-intoxicating, meaning it does not produce the traditional THC-related “high.”
CBD products are widely marketed for wellness, calm, and other purposes. However, evidence for many of these uses is still developing. CBD can also have side effects and can interact with medications, so “natural” does not necessarily mean risk-free. (NCCIH)
Understanding potential benefits also means understanding potential risks.
Cannabis can affect memory, attention, coordination, decision-making, and reaction time, particularly shortly after use. Cannabis can also impair driving ability. (CDC)
Smoking cannabis can affect lung health, while cannabis use can also increase heart rate and temporarily raise blood pressure. (CDC)
Some people who use cannabis can also develop cannabis use disorder, particularly with frequent use or products containing high concentrations of THC. (CDC)
Edibles require additional caution because their effects can take longer to appear and may last longer, increasing the possibility of consuming more than intended. (CDC)