According to estimates, around 80% of the global population relies on herbal medicine, often accessed through specialized herbalists or community networks. For some, cannabis is viewed as an herbal medicine that offers an alternative to lab-produced pharmaceuticals.
This article compares marijuana with five popular herbal remedies, showcasing their similarities and differences to help you decide which might be best for your needs.
An herbal remedy uses plants for medicinal purposes, with the belief that these plants can prevent or cure illnesses. Unlike pharmacy medications, herbal remedies aren’t subjected to rigorous testing and aren’t regulated. While the medical community recognizes potential benefits, they emphasize that these treatments aren’t the same as traditional medicine. Just because something is natural doesn’t mean it’s inherently safe.
Significant research supports the use of herbal medicine to address illnesses, reflecting a long history where herbal approaches were primary healthcare methods in Western countries until the last 50-100 years. Interestingly, about 25% of all pharmaceutical medicines are plant-derived.
Marijuana, from the cannabis plant, is used by many for medicinal purposes, making it a type of herbal remedy. What makes it stand out is the extensive research on its therapeutic properties.
Ginger, known for thousands of years for both culinary and medicinal uses, is effective in pain relief. Ginseng, a tonic from Asia and North America, has been known for centuries to relax the mind and enhance bodily functions. Turmeric has a long history in Chinese and Indian medicine. Chamomile, from the Asteraceae plant family, has been used medicinally and for tea for centuries. Ginkgo Biloba, a Chinese tree used in the West for centuries, is believed to enhance concentration, memory, and overall wellbeing.
Marijuana has potential benefits similar to many herbal remedies. For instance, Cannabis is used for pain relief, including headaches and migraines. It could potentially benefit neurodegenerative diseases like dementia and help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, stress, and depression in patients with mood disorders.
Cannabis offers various potential benefits and might combine the capabilities of multiple traditional herbal remedies. However, it’s legal for medicinal or recreational use in only a limited number of places, including some U.S. states. Dispensaries can’t make health claims about cannabis. Like all herbal remedies, it carries risks of side effects, and it’s crucial to discuss its use with a healthcare professional, especially if you’re on other medications.