Glaucoma is a condition that causes Intraocular Pressure (IOP) and is one of the first medical disorders for which the beneficial properties of cannabis where studied, dating back to 1971.
We now know that cannabis can help with glaucoma because of its most abundant cannabinoid THC. So far, these studies have shown that THC can help to reduce the pressure on the optic nerve and retina (which is the predominant symptom with IOP) as well as providing neuro- and anti-inflammatory protection, reducing the risk of damage to these part of the human eye.
Glaucoma produces an abnormal amount of pressure to the eyes causing inflammation and potentially damages the optic nerve. Without treatment, glaucoma is one of the most common causes of blindness.
There are two main types of Glaucoma – Primary open-angle glaucoma and angle-closure glaucoma.
The most common form of glaucoma, Primary openangle Glaucoma or POAG is usually treated with prescription eye drops while the less common form of glaucoma, angleclosure glaucoma occurs when the drainage canals in the eye become blocked. This can cause a sudden rise in intraocular pressure. This rare, but potentially dangerous condition can develop rapidly and requires immediate medical attention.
Glaucoma was among the first medical conditions for which the beneficial properties of marijuana as an alternative medicine were studied. Research analysis from as far back as the 1970s indicated that THC can be effective in lowering pressure in the eye, the primary symptom of glaucoma. The main glaucoma symptoms include severe headaches, eye pressure, blurred vision, temporary vision loss and nausea.
There was considerable interest generated from the first reports of the links between glaucoma and relative effects of marijuana. At the time, treating glaucoma using conventional medical treatments also came with a number of adverse effects. However, it would soon emerge that cannabis consumption could lower eye pressure and prove to be an alternative but highly effective treatment for this debilitating condition.
The medical marijuana revolution began when Robert Randall, (often described as the father of medical cannabis) who suffered from glaucoma, observed that his glaucoma symptoms were significantly reduced when he used cannabis. Randall faced federal prosecution for growing and his cannabis consumption to relieve the symptoms of his condition.
Thanks to the evolution of scientific research on medical cannabis, we now understand that cannabinoids lowers intraocular pressure and prove to be an alternative and effective treatment for glaucoma.
Indeed, in November 1976, in what turned out to be a landmark case, Randall became the first person in modern U.S. history to obtain legal, medical access to cannabis. Fast-forward 43 years and medicinal or recreational cannabis is now legal in over 25 U.S states, despite its continued federal illegality.
In the intervening years since Randall´s remarkable victory, various studies have shown that the effects of marijuana are thought to reduce pressure in the eye. Specifically, THC, (an active compound of the cannabis plant) can help bring down the pressure on the retina and optic nerve. Furthermore, THC and other active compounds like CBD provide anti-inflammatory and neuroprotection to prevent further damage to the eyes.
Cannabis is known to have more than 400 active compounds, of which, THC is one of the most famed and studied. THC was discovered and isolated as far back as 1964 and has been shown to reduce intraocular pressure by as much as 60 to 65%.
Ongoing studies have suggested that the effects of marijuana may have the potential to relieve symptoms of glaucoma by reducing eye pressure and enhancing muscle relaxation.
If you´re a glaucoma patient and you´re considering trying medical cannabis as an alternative to conventional medical treatments, we have picked out 3 of the best medical marijuana strains for glaucoma.
A cannabis strain with a legendary history, Blueberry is a revered strain for relieving pain and could be a highly effective treatment of glaucoma.
This superstar of the cannabis world claimed the High Times Cannabis Cup award for best indica strain back in 2000 and is admired by both cannabis connoisseurs and growers alike who love this potent indica for its colourful hues and relaxing effects that can produce a long-lasting sense of euphoria.
Originally grown in the late 1970s, Blueberry is commonly used by medical cannabis patients because of the plant’s powerful pain-killing ability. As such, this strain is said to be an effective treatment for those who experience severe and debilitating pain from glaucoma.
With a THC content approaching 18%, this indica dominant hybrid strain delights users, both recreational and medicinal, with a delicious flavour of sweet blueberries that is the result of this strains terpene profile which includes myrcene, caryophyllene and pinene. For patients, particularly those suffering from glaucoma, Blueberry is considered a great strain for relieving pain and one of the best marijuana strains for glaucoma.
Perhaps the most commonly used strain for glaucoma, Maui Wowie, is a sativa dominant hybrid strain that comes highly recommended for those looking to try marijuana for glaucoma.
Originating out of sunny Hawaii, this classic sativa strain boasts a delicious combination of tropical flavours that can leave you feeling that little bit closer to paradise. Its terpene makeup including myrcene, pinene and caryophyllene is thought to be an ideal composition for the treatment of glaucoma and helps to generate the strains fabulous flavour and aroma.
With a THC content that averages around 16%, Maui Wowie is not the most potent sativa strain available and is considered an ideal choice for those with less cannabis experience. This fine medical strain for relieving pain can help to reduce stress while also providing a much-needed boost of energy.
As the name might suggest, the fabulously named Rollex OG Kush is considered to be one of the best options in the treatment of glaucoma.
This indica dominant hybrid of White Fire OG and Kuchi generates a remarkable flavour profile that combines the skunky, pine flavour of OG Kush with the sour, diesel-like flavour of the heralded White Fire OG.
With a high THC content approaching 20%, this potent indica hybrid strain can help to manage the symptoms of glaucoma including severe headaches and muscle tension.
With a terpene profile that includes myrcene, caryophyllene and limonene, this modern-day wonder has serious medicinal value that makes it a potentially effective treatment for those living with the condition of glaucoma.
If you are a glaucoma patient looking to try marijuana for glaucoma and you want more information about our more comprehensive range of medical marijuana strains including potent indica strains.
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