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FrenchYou probably never thought about cannabis as a superfood. Its leafy greens hold an abundance of beneficial enzymes and nutrients. Even though more research is needed, it’s safe to say that raw cannabis is among the healthiest foods to eat. Its bitter taste is beloved by many.
Cannabis leaves, stems and flowers can be eaten raw in their natural state. The root is usually dried, ground and consumed as a tea or coffee substitute. You can also turn raw cannabis into smoothies and salads.
Here are 10 health benefits of juicing cannabis supported by science.
1. Juicing Cannabis May Reduce Inflammation
Inflammation is the body’s natural defense to injury or illness. Over time, too much of it can harm your body.
The two main cannabinoids that we all love — THC and CBD — begin as THC-A and CBD-A. The “A” at the end of these two well-known cannabinoids stand for “acid.” To experience the THC high, cannabis needs to be heated. In other words, you won’t get high from eating raw cannabis.
Juicing THC-A may help to protect against neurodegenerative diseases, treat nausea and appetite loss, and is noted in studies of prostate cancer. CBD-A is being studied to help with nausea and breast cancer. THC-A and CBD-A both treat inflammation. The only way for your body to get them is to eat cannabis in its raw form.
Juicing cannabis also has an “entourage effect” of common terpene fragrances like myrcene (fights inflammation), limonene (gastrointestinal issues) and pinene (anti-cancer) all working well together with THC-A and CBD-A to reduce inflammation.
2. Juicing Cannabis May Support Healthy Bones
Even though little research has been done on cannabis’s effect on bone health, it’s safe to say that cannabis has similar nutritional components as other leafy green vegetables, such as a good abundance of calcium, magnesium and vitamin K to help prevent bone loss.
3. Juicing Cannabis May Help Boost the Immune System
Cannabis leaves contain potassium, iron, zinc, phosphorus, folate, and vitamin C that are essential for repairing cells and boosting the immune system.
Some research indicates that cannabis may have anti-microbial and anti-viral properties, which could support your body’s ability to fight infection. Research also indicates that some of the active compounds in cannabis protect against various harmful bacteria.
4. Juicing Cannabis May Help Repair Damaged Cells
Cannabis is very high in antioxidants. Antioxidants help to counteract oxidative damage by free radicals in the body. Oxidative damage is believed to be the leading drivers of aging and many diseases, including cancer.
Cannaflavins is an antioxidant exclusive to cannabis, which is proving more powerful than aspirin in treating inflammation. Chlorophyll is another antioxidant that’s found in raw cannabis. It helps replenish red blood cells that enhance the blood’s ability to carry more oxygen and aids the liver.
5. Juicing Cannabis May Help You Lose Weight
Cannabis is very low in calories and high in fiber, providing a significant bulk to a meal that can help you feel full and help your digestive system.
Disclaimer
Raw cannabis can cause an allergic reaction among some people, particularly those with allergies to plants like ragweed. A skin rash could occur in people with sensitive skin. Raw cannabis may also interact unfavorably with some medications, especially certain diuretics and antibiotics.
Always talk to a qualified healthcare professional before adding a new herbal supplement to your diet.