An honest look at the benefits of caring for marijuana

The path to sobriety is different for every traveler. For some, attaining a healthy state of mind requires renouncing substance altogether. For many, however, cannabis use is a welcome bridge to an addiction-free life. Marijuana conservation is the theory that those struggling with addiction and detox can use herbs to safely rid themselves of toxic drug use. As legalization efforts gain a foothold in the United States, cannabis is increasingly revered for its healing properties.

Bringing substance abuse to the curb is not always easy. Individuals suffering from disorders undergoing detox and drug management programs should consider including cannabis in their daily health rituals for the following reasons.

Damage minimization

Cannabis advocates argue that marijuana has been unfairly demonized by media and government efforts. The misconception that herbs are a gateway drug leading to a life of criminal activity and addiction contradicts the 48% of everyday Americans who use some form of cannabis. In addition, marijuana has been shown to have no risk of death from overuse and binging. Therefore, those recovering from substance abuse report smoking cannabis to avoid the use of more toxic substances. Instead of looking for black market or unregulated drugs, a recovering addict can safely use marijuana products that are less damaging to long-term health.

Management of withdrawal symptoms

Common symptoms of withdrawal from opiates and other addictive substances include anxiety, nausea, insomnia, and irritability, all of which cannabis can treat. Over the years, increasing research has shown that marijuana provides significant relief to those struggling with anxiety, and countless doctors are prescribing cannabis as a treatment option. CBD, a cannabinoid extract from cannabis, has been shown to reduce inflammation and even work against seizures. Even marijuana critics cannot argue with the herb’s ability to stimulate appetite and curb feelings of nausea. Given the success marijuana has had in containing typical withdrawal symptoms, more recovery programs should seriously consider adding cannabis to treatment plans.

An alternative to abstinence-only programs

Only then will a unified approach to recovery lead to a higher failure rate for those who cannot or do not want to do without substances. For thousands of people considering AA programs or other treatment plans, the prospect of a singular method of abstinence is simply unattainable. With this in mind, many proponents of marijuana maintenance plans argue that including cannabis in treatment plans creates more space for those seeking help. In addition, addicts who choose to gradually reduce their use are more likely to find success in using marijuana.

Close thoughts

Those recovering from substance abuse should be surrounded by a compassionate community that understands that there are multiple avenues to sobriety. While some choose to pursue abstinence only, others experience debilitating withdrawal or other factors that push them back into substance abuse. For these individuals, a treatment plan including cannabis can guide them on the path to recovery. The recognition of marijuana as a harm reduction and withdrawal management tool is changing society’s perception of ganja as a potentially lethal drug. Instead, cannabis is portrayed as a medicinal herb that is harvested to relieve pain and improve quality of life.

Of course, anyone detoxing themselves from drugs or participating in a drug rehab program should speak to their doctor before introducing cannabis products into their treatment regimen. While cannabis has been shown to help many substance use disorder patients detox from hard drugs, it may not be the optimal solution for everyone.

Additionally, your doctor or rehab program manager may be able to provide insight into the best form of cannabis. Some doctors may stop smoking marijuana during a rehab program. Therefore, using alternative forms such as oils, concentrates, and foods may be more appropriate.

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