Those of us who have experienced it know that it’s one of the most sorrowful things to witness in this life, to see a loved one gradually succumb to dementia. 

While there’s still no cure, treatment for the symptoms has evolved over the years to include a large number of pharmaceuticals, with several regularly prescribed at once. The medications can often have adverse side effects and harmful interactions, while also becoming quite expensive as they potentially lower an already sadly declining quality of life.

But it seems that our old friend cannabis could be advantageous for treatment in a multitude of ways. 

A small study in Geneva in 2019 found that severe behavioral symptoms were very well mitigated by both THC and CBD. After two months, half of the patients in the study decreased or stopped other psychotropic medications altogether. Cannabis also provides these patients with improved sleep, improved appetite, and relief from pain. Quality of life improved across the board. No serious adverse events observed. 

While these effects could be considered as something of a given for those of us who understand cannabis, studies have proven that it has also led to reduced brain inflammation, protection against oxidative stress, exhibits neuroprotective effects, and results in reduced amyloid plaques and tau tangles, which are key markers of dementia. Results also highlight that cannabis could offer protective effects in older age, resulting from an endocannabinoid-mediated modulation of inflammation, immune function, and neurodegeneration.

 A little at a time, we witness as the massive benefit of this little plant gradually come to light. So many can live better from this simple thing that comes out of the ground. We hope that someday, we won’t have to fight to keep it available.