A recent study took place which found that cannabis might be extremely useful in helping people with alcoholism and drug addiction. The study, which took place at UBC, involved a comprehensive review of the current research on medical cannabis as well as mental health. It was published in the Clinical Psychology Review.
It has been called the most comprehensive study to date on the topic.
There are currently millions of people who could benefit from using cannabis in order to aid in their addictions. Coming off of alcohol or opioids is going to commonly be a very painful process. Symptoms often include: nausea, headaches, sweating, irritability, and much worse. In a way, cannabis can work as a “gateway drug” in the opposite direction, which would be getting them off of their addictions. And the current research suggests that many people might be turning to using cannabis as an exit drug, in order to try and help them to reduce the use of other substances that are potentially much more harmful to them.
Researchers say that of those who have used the plant directly and claimed that it helps them in various ways, they have some valid points. They also say that more research is needed in order to try and figure out how to work with mental health professionals on understanding the risks associated with cannabis, and how it might provide benefit in various ways.
As more jurisdictions look to embracing legalization, and more funding gets placed toward research in this area, it's only a matter of time before more information comes to light on how we could possibly benefit from using this plant.
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sources:
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/british-columbia/doctors-should-consider-pot-to-treat-opioid-addictions-ubc-study-says/article32882992/
http://castlegarsource.com/news/can-medical-marijuana-aid-recovery-alcoholism-and-drug-addiction-43158#.WC9rtnQkqpo