Smoking marijuana can cause stroke in non-stroke people as per a Journal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases study. However, another study on mice found that CBD can help prevent stroke among patients who have vascular disease. A 2012 study adds to this evidence and says that THC and CBD can decrease the damage that strokes cause.
Stroke is the leading cause of disability and stands at the third position as a cause of death. A stroke can either be transient ischemic or a hemorrhage. It can leave the person in question with paralyzed limbs, slurred or loss of speech, memory loss, and even mood disturbances. It can also impact the ability to swallow and think clearly.
Stroke And Cannabis
A stroke occurs when there’s a blockage in an artery. Cannabis may be helpful as it reduces brain inflammation that stroke causes. The herb has strong anti-inflammatory properties. Studies on rats show that cannabis, specifically the cannabinoid CBD, is a neuroprotectant.
In fact, cannabis doesn’t only protect surrounding nerves from suffering a stroke, but it also repairs the damage already caused. Stroke destroys brain cells due to glutamate. While this chemical signals other cells and is normal, stroke leads to its overproduction which is toxic. Cannabis may be helpful by keeping excess glutamate from being released.
The tetrahydrocannabinol found in cannabis, however, has mixed reviews. Some believe that it can dull brain performance. While more recent studies think low doses of it can help neurons regenerate and restore cognitive function.
In fact, a 2017 study by the American College of Cardiology said that cannabis improves blood flow and hence, oxygen to the brain. It particular, increases blood flow to the area of the brain responsible for learning. This study’s researchers said that the THC in cannabis lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow to the brain.
A lot of patients have benefited from cannabis when it comes to stroke. It also has anti-anxiety benefits and can relieve users of pain. What matters though, is which strain and what concentration of marijuana are used. Some even think that cannabis can pose additional benefits for those who have suffered with a stroke.
So, It Is Worth Trying?
Whether or not you should go for medical marijuana to prevent further stroke and damage after a first stroke depends on your doctor. Self-medication with cannabis is not recommended. Your healthcare provider knows best whether or not you should choose this route. While latest research makes it seem like a promising option, more investigation is still required.
Key Takeaway
Not many researchers favored medical marijuana for stroke-induced damage in the early years they started researching its link with stroke. However, recent studies show positive effects. Many scientists have reported that after a stroke, cannabis can benefit by reducing inflammation in the brain and increasing blood flow.
However, for those who are not stroke patients, their risk for having a stroke may be increased when they smoke pot.
