Cannabinoids and treating Glaucoma
Marijuana is a combination of the dried flowering leaves and tops of the plant Cannabis sativa. Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) was identified and isolated as the major active component in 1964. The plant contains more than 400 chemicals, most of which are related compounds called cannabinoids. There is a significant variability in potency of THC and other cannabinoids when the plant material is used.5
Can cannabis help treat symptoms of glaucoma?
Some research suggests that cannabis may improve symptoms of glaucoma, primarily by reducing pressure in the eye, which experts call intraocular pressure (IOP). Glaucoma is a group conditions that cause increased IOP, which damages the optic nerve. Over time, this can weaken vision and potentially lead to blindness. Marijuana and THC have been shown to lower IOP in 60% to 65% of both normal individuals and patients with glaucoma. Mean IOP reduction in one study was about 25%.
Glaucoma is the leading cause of vision loss among people over the age of 60 years.
Today I had the pleasure to talk to Al Morentin, Cannabis Consultant who share his story about how he treated his glaucoma with Cannabinoids.
A 2019 review highlights some promising research indicating that cannabis may ease symptoms of glaucoma.
Some evidence indicates that cannabinoids, which are the chemicals in cannabis, have neuroprotective properties.
Al Morentin comments that Cannabis oils are crucial to get his vision back and he combines a system with essential supplements to maintain his visions health. These natural supplements include: MSM, Vitamin D3, K2, the ayurvedic Shilajit extract and Chlorella.
Living with glaucoma can be difficult, and treatment is not effective for everyone. The case of Al Morentin and the 36 people he has worked with Glaucoma for the past 20 years can perhaps change the direction of the studies and approach to heal Glaucoma. People who wish to try cannabis should seek guidance from a doctor who is knowledgeable about medical cannabis. Patients should be encouraged to continue adherence to prescribed therapy with long-term monitoring of their disease.
As I was diagnosed with Osteoarthritis a month ago at 37. I have been researching natural ways to decrease the progression of this autoimmune issue that affects 1 every 5 women before 40 in Canada.
In our next talk Al Morentin will share the benefits using Cannabis and CBD oils to treat specifically osteoarthritis.
Stay tune!
Joa Rivas
1. Hepler RS, Frank IR. Marihuana smoking and intraocular pressure. JAMA 1971;217(10):1392.
2. Green K. Marijuana smoking vs cannabinoids for glaucoma therapy. Arch Ophthalmol. 1998;116(11):1433-1437.