For years, cannabis was primarily associated with getting high, couch-lock, and ordering way too much takeout. But today, it’s taking the healthcare world by storm, with more people than ever embracing cannabis for its potential wellness benefits. From easing stress to helping with inflammation, the plant that once carried a stigma is now making waves in wellness routines.
But let’s be clear—while cannabis has exciting potential in the health world, it’s not a cure-all, and we’re not here to make any wild claims. Instead, we’re diving into what research says about cannabis and CBD and how they might play a role in your health and wellness journey.
A Closer Look at Cannabis in Healthcare
As legalization spreads, cannabis is increasingly being studied for its potential therapeutic properties. While research is still catching up to its newfound mainstream status, early studies and user testimonials suggest that cannabis may offer benefits for pain relief, stress management, and more.
The two most well-known compounds in cannabis—THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol)—interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a role in regulating mood, pain, appetite, and sleep.
- THC is the psychoactive component that produces the “high,” but it also has potential pain-relieving and appetite-stimulating properties.
- CBD is non-psychoactive and is often used for relaxation, inflammation, and general well-being.
Let’s break down some of the most popular health-related reasons people are turning to cannabis.
1. Cannabis for Pain Relief
One of the most common reasons people explore cannabis is for pain management. Whether it’s chronic pain, muscle soreness, or discomfort from medical conditions, some research suggests cannabis may offer relief.
A study published in the Journal of Pain found that cannabis users reported significant reductions in pain levels, particularly for conditions like arthritis and nerve pain (Boehnke et al., 2019). Researchers believe that THC and CBD work together to modulate pain perception, reducing discomfort without the need for traditional painkillers.
However, pain relief isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some people find relief with high-THC strains, while others prefer CBD-dominant options for a more subtle effect. Experimenting with different ratios under the guidance of a knowledgeable budtender can help you find the best match.
Source: Boehnke KF, Gangopadhyay S, Clauw DJ, Haffajee RL. (2019). “Qualifying Conditions Of Medical Cannabis License Holders In The United States.” Journal of Pain.
2. CBD for Inflammation & Recovery
Inflammation is a natural bodily response, but chronic inflammation can lead to discomfort and long-term health issues. CBD has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory effects.
A European Journal of Pain study suggested that topical CBD applications may reduce inflammation-related pain in arthritis patients (Hammell et al., 2016). This is why CBD creams and balms are increasingly popular for athletes, weekend warriors, and those managing conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
Beyond topicals, many cannabis users find that CBD oils and edibles provide lasting relief by interacting with the body’s ECS to regulate inflammatory responses.
Source: Hammell DC, Zhang LP, Ma F, Abshire SM, McIlwrath SL, Stinchcomb AL, Westlund KN. (2016). “Transdermal cannabidiol reduces inflammation and pain-related behaviours in a rat arthritis model.” European Journal of Pain.
3. Stress & Anxiety: Can Cannabis Help You Chill?
Life is stressful—there’s no way around it. From work deadlines to the general chaos of the world, finding ways to relax is essential. Enter cannabis.
CBD is well-known for its potential to promote relaxation without intoxication. A review in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that CBD might help reduce symptoms of anxiety disorders by interacting with serotonin receptors in the brain (Blessing et al., 2015).
THC, on the other hand, can be a little trickier when it comes to stress management. Some people find that low doses of THC help them relax, while high doses may increase anxiety in specific individuals. The key is finding the right balance—many users swear by hybrid strains or THC/CBD 1:1 ratios for a smooth, stress-free experience.
Source: Blessing EM, Steenkamp MM, Manzanares J, Marmar CR. (2015). “Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders.” Journal of Clinical Psychology.
4. Sleep & Cannabis: A Dreamy Combination?
If counting sheep isn’t cutting it, cannabis might be worth exploring for better sleep. Some studies suggest that indica strains with higher THC content can promote relaxation and sleepiness, while CBD may help regulate sleep cycles.
A 2020 study published in Frontiers in Pharmacology found that cannabis use was associated with improved sleep quality in people struggling with insomnia (Babson et al., 2020). However, long-term use of high-THC strains may lead to tolerance, meaning the effects might decrease over time.
For those looking for a natural sleep aid, edibles or tinctures taken 30-60 minutes before bed might be the perfect addition to a nighttime routine.
Source: Babson KA, Sottile J, Morabito D. (2020). “Cannabis, Cannabinoids, and Sleep: A Review of the Literature.” Frontiers in Pharmacology.
Finding the Right Cannabis Product for You
With so many cannabis products available, how do you choose the right one? Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
- For pain relief, consider a balanced THC/CBD strain or a CBD-dominant product.
- For inflammation: Try CBD oils, topicals, or edibles with anti-inflammatory properties.
- For stress relief: Opt for CBD-only products or a low-THC, high-CBD hybrid strain.
- For sleep: Look for indica strains, edibles, or THC-infused tinctures before bedtime.
If you’re unsure, our budtenders at Mystic Cannabis are always happy to guide you to the perfect product for your wellness goals.
The Final Puff: Cannabis as a Wellness Tool
Cannabis is more than just a way to relax—it’s a plant with real potential in wellness and healthcare. While research is still evolving, early studies and real-world experiences suggest that cannabis and CBD may offer natural alternatives for pain relief, stress, inflammation, and sleep support.
But as with anything, finding the right balance is key. Whether you’re new to cannabis or looking to fine-tune your wellness routine, Mystic Cannabis is here to help.
Explore the Health Benefits of Marijuana at Mystic Cannabis
Your wellness journey starts here. Visit us in Burr Oak or Memphis, Michigan, to explore our selection of high-quality cannabis products for relaxation, relief, and more. Let our friendly budtenders help you find the perfect fit for your health and lifestyle!
