Understanding Essential Tremors
Essential tremors are neurological disorders that cause involuntary shaking or trembling, usually in the hands, head, or voice. Although it is often confused with Parkinson’s disease, essential tremors are different in that they are not related to any degenerative disorders or cognitive decline. Instead, essential tremors are caused by a malfunction in the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for coordinating movement. It is estimated that over six million people in the United States have essential tremors, and it is a condition that is often debilitating, affecting daily activities such as eating, drinking, and writing.
Conventional Treatment for Essential Tremors
Currently, the conventional treatment for essential tremors includes medications such as beta-blockers, anti-seizure drugs, and tranquilizers. However, these medications do not work for everyone, and they often come with side effects such as fatigue, dizziness, and nausea. Additionally, these medications only offer temporary relief and do not address the underlying cause of essential tremors. Therefore, there is a growing interest in alternative treatments, such as medical marijuana.
What is Medical Marijuana?
Medical marijuana, also known as medical cannabis, is a plant-based medicine that is derived from the Cannabis sativa plant. It contains over 100 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids, with the two most commonly known being tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is the compound that is responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana use, while CBD is non-psychoactive and does not produce a high.
Medical marijuana has been used for medical purposes for thousands of years, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient Chinese medicine. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the use of medical marijuana for the treatment of various medical conditions, including essential tremors.
How Does Medical Marijuana Help Essential Tremors?
Research has shown that medical marijuana may be effective in reducing the symptoms of essential tremors. This is due to its ability to interact with the endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating various bodily functions, including movement.
One way that medical marijuana helps essential tremors is by reducing inflammation in the brain. Inflammation in the brain can cause disruptions in the cerebellum, leading to tremors. Medical marijuana contains CBD, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation in the brain, thereby reducing tremors.
Additionally, medical marijuana can also help reduce anxiety and stress, which are known to exacerbate essential tremors. Both THC and CBD have been shown to have anxiolytic properties that can help reduce anxiety and stress levels, thereby reducing the severity of tremors.
Dosage and Administration of Medical Marijuana
When it comes to using medical marijuana for essential tremors, it is important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. The dosage and administration of medical marijuana will vary depending on the individual’s age, weight, medical history, and the severity of their symptoms.
Additionally, the method of administration will also affect the effectiveness of medical marijuana. Smoking medical marijuana is not recommended as it can irritate the lungs and cause respiratory problems. Instead, other methods such as edibles, tinctures, and vaporizers are recommended.
Conclusion
In conclusion, essential tremors are a neurological disorder that can be debilitating for those who suffer from it. Although conventional treatments such as medications can offer temporary relief, they often come with side effects and do not address the underlying cause of the condition. Medical marijuana offers a promising alternative treatment option for essential tremors, with research showing that it can help reduce inflammation in the brain and anxiety levels, thereby reducing the severity of tremors. However, it is important to note that the dosage and administration of medical marijuana will vary depending on the individual’s needs and medical history, and it is recommended that individuals consult with a physician before using medical marijuana as a treatment option.
