The Facts

Cannabis has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, and there is growing interest in its potential benefits in the medical field. While more research is needed, some studies suggest that cannabis may be effective in treating a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, nausea, and anxiety.
For example, a study published in the Journal of Pain found that cannabis was effective in reducing pain in patients with chronic pain. Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that cannabis was effective in reducing nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy.
In addition, a number of studies have shown that cannabis may be helpful in treating anxiety. For example, a study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that cannabis was effective in reducing anxiety in patients with social anxiety disorder.
The most comprehensive studies on the medical benefits of cannabis are often large-scale meta-analyses. These studies review and analyze the results of many different smaller studies to draw broader conclusions.
Here are a few examples of comprehensive studies on the medical benefits of cannabis:
- A 2017 review of over 10,000 scientific studies found that cannabis or products containing cannabinoids are effective at relieving chronic pain. Medicinal cannabis may be particularly useful in reducing neuropathic (nerve) pain.
- A 2019 review of 146 studies found that cannabis or cannabinoids may be effective in treating nausea and vomiting, especially in people undergoing chemotherapy.
- A 2020 review of 79 studies found that cannabis or cannabinoids may be effective in improving sleep quality in people with insomnia.