A new study proves that marijuana is not a gateway drug, but rather an effective pain reliever. The newly published report is a good news for the “Schedule 1 substance” users.
The study was conducted by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. The researchers used nearly 10,000 scientific abstracts published since 1999, and reached 100 definitive conclusions about marijuana use based on the combined findings. The conclusions in the 395-page report ranged from good to bad.
In listing all 100 conclusions, the researchers drilled down to some brief key findings of the study. One of the positive findings indicates marijuana to be highly effective for the treatment of chronic pain symptoms, emphasizing that it is not a gateway drug.
Findings also debunked the myth that marijuana may cause cancers from the use of tobacco. It is proven not linked to the increased risk of cancers, including lung, neck and head cancer.
In psychological terms, however, the long term use of marijuana may develop social anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and depression (though to a lesser extent). Besides that, the drug promotes the risk of motor vehicle accidents.
More research is needed to answer the allegations related to marijuana, especially concerning its link to death. There is not enough evidence linking marijuana to the worsening of academic performance either.
While the study shows no apparent difference between pipes, bongs, blunts, papers and other relative method of smoking weed, the researchers suggested marijuana users to consider the key findings of the study, to see what they’re really doing to their bodies and brains.
Meanwhile, marijuana advocates have something else to celebrate after marijuana legalization in Maine, according to Esquire. Maine is one of the frontline states in the U.S. to allow the legalization of marijuana.
Marijuana is the most popular drug in the U.S. While 28 states in the U.S. have implemented the medical use of marijuana, the real-time health benefits of it are still under research.
