Of marijuana, mice and men
A 2001 ABC report showed research at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem discovered that a cannabinoid, 2-Archachodonoyl glycerol (2-AG), similar to that in marijuana, is found in the brains of various animals and protects mice from brain injury.
In the study, mice that sustained brain injures where discovered to have elevated levels of 2-AG. The scientist acted on the theory, that 2-AG was produced to protect the brain from injury, and administered more of the compound to the injured mice and found that it indeed protected the brain.
Dr. Esther Shohami, lead author of the study, points out that the secondary effects of brain injuries, such as swelling and the release of toxic chemicals, can be more damaging than the initial blow.
The cannabinoid, 2-AG, is believed to work in three ways. First, it reduces the levels of glutamate, a toxic molecule, released after injury. Second, it decreases the amount of free radicals and TNF (a chemical that induces inflammation) after injury. Third, it increases the blood supply to the brain. All three mechanisms are essential for limiting the damage done after the primary injury.
The study has implications for the over 5.3 million people in the U.S. living with disabilities related to traumatic brain injury — numbers far greater than those for multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease.
“Because the dose must be carefully controlled”, Dr. Shohami notes – “that marijuana would not likely be a reliable treatment.”
Cannabinoids for humans
Pharmos Pharmaceutical Company produced “Dexanabinol” with help from a Hebrew University research team. Dexanabinol is essentially a mirror image of THC, the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. This drug, designed to improve appetite, has been found to decrease toxic chemicals and swellingalso and without side effects. In a recent article, I discussed controlled dosing with Denver based, Full Spectrum Laboratory's Bob Winnicki.
A Jerusalem Post article indicates that THC is an effective treatment for “Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.” Apparently, THC helps to reduce anxiety and to generally diminish the focus on serious traumatic incidents.
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