Marijuana and Tourette Syndrome
Learn about the management of Tourette Syndrome with medical marijuana and all this plant has to offer.
The lists of qualifying conditions that the states across the US approved for medical marijuana change on a seemingly daily basis. As we continue to discover more and more about the medicinal benefits of cannabis, we further understand the potential behind medical marijuana for Tourettes.
Tourettes is a nervous system disorder that doesn’t have a cure, but there are ways it can be treated and managed healthily.
Here, we’re answering the question, “Does cannabis help with Tourettes?” as well as many other curiosities you might have surrounding Tourettes and medical marijuana. Let’s get started.
Medical Marijuana, Tourettes, and Other Nervous System Disorders
Over the past few years, researchers have learned more about the cannabis plant than ever. With this newfound knowledge, we now know that the human body contains a complex neurotransmitter system called the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
These neurotransmitters, or endocannabinoids, are very similar to the cannabinoids that the cannabis plant produces, playing roles in supporting various biological systems. One of these systems just so happens to be the body’s nervous system.
There are numerous cannabinoid receptors found throughout the nervous system, making it highly susceptible to not only the body’s endocannabinoids, but cannabis’s cannabinoids, too. (We know, the terminology here isn’t super fun.)
Thus, when you consume cannabis or its constituents like CBD, it can work directly with the CB receptors in the nervous system. For those with nervous system disorders like Tourettes, then, medical marijuana can be life-changing.
Before we get into the specific benefits of medical marijuana for Tourettes, it is essential to establish that the only CBD-based medical condition approved by the FDA for medical treatment through cannabis is epilepsy.
However, it is interesting to note that epilepsy—another nervous system disorder—has shown such clear benefits from medical cannabis that pharmaceuticals are now crafted with CBD. While things are a bit muddy now, there’s a good chance this is what the future will look like for marijuana and Tourettes, too.
The Benefits of Medical Marijuana for Tourettes
Now, let’s take an in-depth look into the myriad benefits that using medical marijuana for Tourettes can bring. Of course, these results will vary from person to person, but these are the most common effects that consumers report. (The only way to know how your body will react is to get an MMJ card and try it for yourself!)
Reduces Motor Tics
One of the most noticeable results of using CBD for Tourettes is the reduced frequency of motor tics. Multiple studies have found that those who consume cannabinoids like CBD see lowered facial and other muscular tics overall.
As it stands, the science behind this reduction in motor tics is still a bit unclear. Still, many believe it has something to do with cannabinoid receptors found in the body’s basal ganglia and hippocampus. These areas play prominent roles in the brain’s processing of movement, speaking, and reacting.
When cannabinoids bind to the CB receptors in that area, the body can better regulate these behaviors. Thus, tics become more infrequent (and often less aggressive, but we’ll talk about that later).
In general, scientists have found that cannabis’ role within movement disorders like these is quite substantial. With this information, it isn’t difficult to believe that medical marijuana and Tourettes seem to mesh well together. Again, this isn’t a treatment of tics; however, many users have found that cannabis consumption controlled their tics almost entirely. Results will differ from person to person, but the quality of life is said to improve.
Helps With Sleep
A frustrating side effect of Tourettes that many people don’t consider is sleep disturbance. Especially during REM sleep, those with Tourettes may experience high tic levels even sleeping, which can quickly wake someone up throughout the night. Because of this, many of those with Tourettes also suffer from severe sleep disorders. Thankfully, medical marijuana might be able to help here, too.
One of CBD’s most common uses is for sleep. The cannabinoid works to calm both the body and the mind, reduce muscle pains, and lower stress levels, making it much easier for the average person to drift off to sleep. The same works for those with nervous system disorders like Tourettes!
When taken before bed, many people with Tourettes have found that medical marijuana provides them with a more peaceful, deep sleep. They report only minor disturbances throughout the night. With so many different CBD products made specifically for nighttime use, it’s so easy to find the best CBD oil for Tourettes syndrome and sleep.
Assists With OCD Tendencies
Along with sleep disorders, it’s pretty common for those with Tourettes to also suffer from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. With this, it isn’t unlikely for people with Tourettes to repeatedly touch or count a particular area or location, as this is both a reaction to their OCD and their nervous system disorder. While still a relatively new concept, it seems as though medical marijuana for Tourettes may also help alleviate these OCD symptoms.
In terms of compulsions and intrusive thoughts, cannabis can help with both. These two symptoms of OCD are prevalent in those with Tourettes, and this can sometimes exacerbate Tourette’s symptoms, as well. CBD, though, works to rationalize these thoughts, lower overall anxiety levels, and combat certain verbal or physical compulsions.
Promotes Calm & Level-Headed Thinking
It also isn’t uncommon for those with Tourettes to experience sudden outbursts of aggression and anger, especially in children. This can be difficult to deal with in any person, but it just adds fuel to the fire when you’re already suffering from Tourettes. That’s why it is helpful to know that cannabis and its soothing properties may be beneficial.
Studies have found that cannabis, and CBD in particular, have worked well in mood disorders and de-escalate aggression. When used consistently, CBD’s properties work to regulate how you react to situations. This also helps to lower your stress levels and leave you feeling a bit more level-headed. Not to mention, the cannabinoid’s main responsibility is to make the rest of your inner functions as balanced as possible! So, when you reach homeostasis, controlling your emotions becomes more accessible than ever.
How to Utilize Medical Marijuana for Tourettes
Using CBD for Tourettes and finding the best CBD oil for Tourette’s syndrome is the easiest part out of all of this. But, it is also the most subjective! The best CBD oil for you is going to depend on your personal preferences. You may not even want just CBD— THC products or full flower is an attractive option, too. As we said, all of this will depend on you.
CBD oil for Tourettes is a wonderful choice. It is easy to consume and the effects set in quickly, especially when taken sublingually or under the tongue. However, not everybody enjoys the taste of cannabis in that sense, so inhalation also offers a good choice for adults using medical marijuana for Tourettes.
Even products like edibles have a strong, long-lasting concentration that’s wonderful for providing effects throughout the day or night. Edibles will be best for those who struggle to stay asleep, as ingesting cannabis provides hours-long results.
Medical Marijuana for Tourettes: How Elevate Can Help
Are you interested in trying medical marijuana for Tourettes but don’t know where to start? Don’t worry: that’s where Elevate comes in. Elevate Holistic dedicates ourselves to ensuring that every person who deserves a medical marijuana card can access one. Whether you’re confident or a little uncertain about qualifying for your Tourette’s syndrome, we’re here to help you through every step of the way.
Check out the Elevate expert team of cannabis doctors and schedule an appointment to get an MMJ card in your state. Here, all of our Tourettes and medical marijuana questions will be answered. Get started today!
