Shared with permission from Dr. Benjamin Caplan

This article was originally published March 19, 2025, on the CED Clinic Blog.

Expanding the Scope of Cannabis Wellness 

Cannabis isn’t just about pain relief, stress management, or sleep improvement—its effects extend far beyond. From metabolism and inflammation control to eye health and spiritual well-being, cannabinoids interact with nearly every system in the body. Here are 10 more ways Cannabis can be an essential part of a holistic wellness approach.

11. Metabolic Health & Weight Management: Regulating Blood Sugar Naturally

Metabolism is at the core of energy balance, weight regulation, and disease prevention. Factors like insulin resistance, slow metabolism, and chronic inflammation contribute to obesity and metabolic disorders.

How Cannabis helps:

• CBD and THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin) have been studied for their effects on fat metabolism and insulin regulation, which may help support weight balance (Pellati et al., 2018).
• THCV, sometimes called “diet weed,” may reduce appetite and promote fat burning.
• Cannabis interacts with the ECS to regulate glucose homeostasis, potentially aiding in the prevention of type 2 diabetes.

Other Metabolic Boosters:

• Strength training and HIIT workouts have evidence to suggest that they can improve insulin sensitivity, although most other strength training and vigorous cardio workouts do too!
• Omega-3-rich foods help regulate metabolism.
• Fasting and time-restricted eating optimize metabolic flexibility.

Best Cannabis Approach:

For weight management, strains with higher THCV and lower THC may support fat oxidation without increasing appetite.

Metabolism is at the core of energy balance, weight regulation, and disease prevention. Factors like insulin resistance, slow metabolism, and inflammation contribute to obesity and metabolic disorders.

12. Eye Health & Vision Protection: Reducing Ocular Pressure 

The eyes are vulnerable to oxidative stress, neurodegeneration, and intraocular pressure changes—all of which contribute to conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration.

How Cannabis Helps:

• THC has been shown to lower intraocular pressure, helping protect against glaucoma (Tomida et al., British Journal of Ophthalmology, 2006).
• CBD and other cannabinoids exhibit neuroprotective effects, which may help prevent optic nerve damage.
• Cannabis’s anti-inflammatory properties may reduce dry eye syndrome, a common issue with screen exposure and aging.

Best Cannabis Approach:

For glaucoma patients, low-dose THC (2-5 mg) taken consistently may help maintain eye pressure balance.

13. Respiratory Health: Finding Safer Methods of Consumption

Lung health is a growing concern, especially for Cannabis users who smoke. While smoking Cannabis does not contain the harmful additives of tobacco, long-term inhalation may cause irritation and inflammation. (Sciences, National Academies of, et al. “Respiratory Disease.” 2017).

How Cannabis Helps:

• CBD has bronchodilator effects, meaning it may help open airways and reduce inflammation in conditions like asthma (Vuolo F., et al., European Journal of Pharmacology, 2018).
• Switching to a vaporization or edibles eliminates the risks associated with combustion.
• THC, in moderate doses, may help with nocturnal breathing disorders like sleep apnea.

Best Cannabis Approach:

For lung health, consider vaporized Cannabis at lower temperatures or edibles/tinctures to eliminate respiratory exposure.

14. Inflammation Control: Addressing the Root of Chronic Disease

Chronic inflammation is linked to autoimmune diseases, arthritis (Lowin, T. et al., Cell Death Dis 2020), cardiovascular disease, and neurodegeneration. Managing inflammation is key to longevity.

How Cannabis Helps:

• CBD inhibits inflammatory cytokines, reducing the progression of inflammatory conditions like arthritis and Crohn’s disease (Nichols & Kaplan, Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 2020).
• THC works as a pain-relieving anti-inflammatory by modulating immune responses.
• Terpenes like beta-caryophyllene directly activate the CB2 receptors, targeting inflammation.

Best Cannabis Approach:

For chronic inflammation, CBD (25-50 mg daily) with a small dose of THC (2-5 mg) enhances the anti-inflammatory effect.

15. Bone Health & Osteoporosis Prevention: Supporting Bone Density

As we age, bone loss accelerates, increasing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis. Maintaining strong bones is critical for longevity and mobility.

How Cannabis Helps:

• CB2 receptor activation plays a role in bone formation and density, which may help prevent osteoporosis and fractures (Xin et al., Frontiers, 2022).
• CBD may enhance bone healing and mineralization.

Best Cannabis Approach:

For bone health, combining CBD (25 mg/day) with weight-bearing exercise and adequate calcium intake offers the best protection.

16. Autoimmune Disease Management: Modulating Immune Response

Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues, leading to conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis.

How Cannabis Helps:

• CBD has been shown to modulate immune overactivity, which may help reduce autoimmune flare-ups (Giorgi V. et al., ImmunoTargets and Therapy, 2021).
• THC, in small doses, may reduce pain and inflammation while supporting immune balance.

Best Cannabis Approach:

For autoimmune relief, CBD (30-50 mg/day) combined with low-dose THC (1-3 mg) can reduce inflammation and pain.

17. Spiritual & Mental Expansion: Enhancing Mindfulness & Meditation

Cannabis has been used for centuries in spiritual and meditative practices, helping people deepen their awareness and enhance self-reflection.

How Cannabis Helps:

• THC in low doses has been linked to increased theta brain wave activity, associated with deep meditation and creativity.
• Cannabis may enhance introspection, emotional processing, and connection in therapeutic settings.

Best Cannabis Approach:

For spiritual exploration, strains with high limonene, linalool, and pinene can enhance clarity and introspection.

18. Hormonal Balance & Endocrine Support: Navigating Life’s Natural Transitions

Hormonal fluctuations can cause disruptive symptoms across the lifespan—from puberty and menstrual cycles to menopause and andropause. Mood changes, sleep disturbances, hot flashes, and metabolic shifts are common.

How Cannabis Helps:

• Cannabinoids influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and modulate cortisol and other hormone levels (Brents LK, Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine, 2016).
• CBD may reduce cortisol and improve mood and sleep.
• While THC may ease symptoms like hot flashes and irritability.

Best Cannabis approach:

Balanced THC:CBD ratios or CBD-dominant formulas may offer gentle, sustained hormonal support without unwanted intoxication.

19. Sexual Health & Intimacy: Rekindling Connection

Intimacy is often impacted by pain, anxiety, hormonal shifts, or body image concerns. Cannabis can enhance both the physical and emotional aspects of sexual wellness (Teixeira TA, et al.;  Frontiers in Reproductive Health. 2022), (Shiff B, et al.; Canadian Urological Association. 2021).

How Cannabis Helps:

• CBD and THC may reduce pelvic pain, heighten sensory perceptions, and relieve performance anxiety.
• Certain terpenes, such as linalool and limonene, may help relax the body and elevate mood.

Best Cannabis Approach:

CBD lubricants, THC-infused topicals, or low-dose THC (1-3 mg) can enhance comfort, confidence and connection.

20. Appetite Regulation: Supporting Both Under - and Over-Eating

A balanced appetite is essential to maintaining health, especially in the context of chronic illness, cancer, or metabolic syndrome.

How Cannabis Helps:

• THC is effective in stimulating appetite, especially for patients with cancer, HIV/AIDS, or other cachexia-inducing conditions. 
• Conversely, CBD and THCV may help regulate or support appetite, supporting mindful eating.

Best Cannabis Approach:

For appetite stimulation, THC-rich edibles or tinctures (2-5 mg) may be helpful. For appetite control, THCV-dominant or CBD-rich products may assist with reducing cravings.

21. Neuroplasticity & Healthy Aging: Supporting Cognitive Flexibility Over Time

As we age, the brain undergoes structural and functional changes that can impair memory, learning, and adaptability. Neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson’s disease highlight the importance of protecting and maintaining brain health (Campos, A. et al.; Pharmacological Research, 2016)

How Cannabis Helps:

• CBD and non-psychoactive cannabinoids like THCA have shown neuroprotective properties by reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and excitotoxicity (Iuvone T, et al., CNS Neurosci Ther. 2009)
• Preclinical studies suggest cannabinoids may promote neurogenesis and enhance synaptic plasticity, two essential mechanisms for learning and memory.
• THC in very low doses has been associated with improved cognitive flexibility in aging animal models.

Other Neuroprotective Strategies:

• Cognitive engagement (learning new skills)
• Physical activity
• Omega-3 fatty acids,
• Sleep hygiene are foundational for preserving brain health

Best Cannabis Approach:

For cognitive support, CBD (10-30 mg) daily may protect against neuroinflammation. Low-dose THC (1-2 mg), especially when paired with terpenes like pinene, may support memory, attention, and mental clarity without impairing cognition.

Final Thoughts: The Expanding Role of Cannabis in Holistic Wellness

With 20 powerful benefits, Cannabis is far more than just a reliever or sleep aid – it’s a comprehensive wellness tool that can support brain health, immunity, digestion, metabolism, and even spiritual well-being.
As research continues to expand, Cannabis will likely play an even bigger role in the future of healthcare.

Whether you’re looking for science-backed guidance on Cannabis use or personalized recommendations, visit CED Clinic for expert insights tailored to your health goals.

References

1. Weight Loss and Therapeutic Metabolic Effects of THCV and CBD.

2. Cannabinol Modulates Neuroprotectiion and Intraocular Pressure, British Journal of Ophthalmology.

3. The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids: The Current State of Evidence and Recommendations for Research.

4. Cannabidiol Reduces Airway Inflammation and Fibrosis in Experimental Allergic Asthma, European Journal of Pharmacology.

5. Cannabidiol (CBD): a killer for inflammatory rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts. Cell Death & Disease.

6. Immune Responses Regulated by Cannabidiol. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research. 

7. Components of the Endocannabinoid System and Effects of Cannabinoids Against Bone Diseases: A Mini-Review. Frontiers in Pharmacology.

8. Cannabis and Autoimmunity: Possible Mechanisms of Action. ImmunoTargets and Therapy.

9. Marijuana, the Endocannabinoid System and the Female Reproductive System. Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine. 

10. Marijuana Is Associated With a Hormonal Imbalance Among Several Habits Related to Male Infertility: A Retrospective Study. Frontiers in Reproductive Health. 

11. The Impact of Cannabis Use On Male Sexual Function: A 10-Year, Single-Center Experience. The Canadian Urological Association.

12. Cannabidiol, neuroprotection and neuropsychiatric disorders, Pharmacological Research.

13. Cannabidiol: A Promising Drug for Neurodegenerative Disorders? CNS Neuroscience & Therapeutics. 

About Dr Benjamin Caplan:

Dr. Benjamin Caplan is a board-certified Family Physician with over 20 years of experience, blending classical medical training with a specialized focus on cannabinoid therapies. He’s known for advancing evidence-based approaches to patient care and research in this evolving field. As a Principal Investigator and published author in journals such as the New England Journal of Medicine, Dr. Caplan brings both clinical and academic expertise to his mission. His work bridges innovation, education, and compassionate care, empowering patients and professionals worldwide to better understand and utilize the Endocannabinoid System.

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 Effective Cannabis Newsletter is a platform to educate on the vital role of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) in one's health. The information is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in or available through this newsletter is for general information purposes only. It is not medical advice; it is health awareness.