The use of medical marijuana has always been somewhat controversial. It is known to have many health benefits but the safety of it has always been questioned. However, in recent developments the World Health Organisation (WHO) has announced that the use of marijuana can benefit humans and animals without the risk of addiction.

Latest developments

The WHO has preliminary evidence to suggest that cannabidiol (CBD), the relaxant property of cannabis used in medical marijuana, could be used to treat a number of serious conditions.

CBD as treatment

CBD is an non-psychoactive substance meaning, unlike ‘regular’ marijuana, it doesn’t affect brain function. It is said to provide pain relief, and can be used to treat Alzheimer’s disease, Crohn’s disease, certain forms of cancer, Parkinson’s disease and other serious conditions.

Several studies have suggested that CBD could also have some “therapeutic value” to help with these diseases.

More research to be done?

Due to the interest and increase in use, the WHO has, in recent years, gathered more robust scientific evidence on therapeutic use and side effects of cannabis and cannabis components.

However, the organisation is not currently recommending the use of CBD until more research has taken place. This latest report called for a fuller review of CBD in May 2018, when a more comprehensive analysis of cannabis and cannabis related substances can take place.

The legal problem

The WHO has also suggested that the use of medical marijuana should not be prohibited on an international level and that it should be up to individual countries to decide what restrictions they wish to put on the drug.

Although many US states have recently legalised marijuana for medical and recreational use, it still remains illegal on the federal level.

Following the more in depth WHO review in May, it is likely that the guidelines for medical marijuana will become even more clear and comprehensive.