Illuzionz O' Grandeur- Battling Muscular Dystrophy

I had an amazing time with ILLZ. We just took right off with a great conversation and the discussion evolved throughout. Let's see if she'll co-host some shows with me. She is really happy with the app and speaks as to how it works for her. 

 

In muscular dystrophies, abnormal genes (mutations) lead to muscle degeneration. Most forms begin in childhood.

Damaged muscles become progressively weaker. Most people who have the condition eventually need a wheelchair. Other symptoms include trouble breathing or swallowing.

Medications, therapy, breathing aids, or surgery may help maintain function, but life span is often shortened.

 

Welcome to the NORML Women's Alliance:

The NORML Women’s Alliance is a nonpartisan coalition of socially and geographically diverse women who believe that marijuana prohibition is a self-destructive and hypocritical policy that undermines the American family, sends a mixed and false message to our young people, and destroys the cherished principles of personal liberty and local self-government.

The NORML Women are bringing a contemporary approach to the public policy debate, and are proudly representing the interests of modern, mainstream women who believe that the negative consequences of marijuana prohibition far outweigh any repercussions from marijuana consumption itself. The NORML Women’s Alliance also presents a core group of national spokeswomen ready to interact with the public and the media on the important issue of marijuana legalization.

 

How Cannabis Benefits Muscular Dystrophy

Scientific studies on cannabis and MD are sorely lacking despite the fact cannabis has been shown effective against common symptoms of MD such as pain and stiffness. There is evidence suggesting it may help related conditions, e.g., amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, which has some similar characteristics, such as impaired movement and muscle loss. A 2010 study in The American Journal of Hospice & Palliative Care described how cannabis could potentially benefit ALS through the following mechanisms. At least some of these effects could theoretically benefit MD as well.

 

• Reducing glutamate transmission
• Antioxidant activity
• Anti-inflammatory activity
• Modulation of microglial cell activity
• Prevents apoptosis (cell death) in healthy cells
• Neuroprotective and neurotrophic (helps neurons grow) effects
• Enhances function of mitochondria

Formal studies have determined cannabinoids are effective against pain, one of the most destructive symptoms of MD. A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in 2013 found even low doses of vaporized THC was effective for reducing neuropathic pain. An earlier randomized trial concluded that smoking cannabis three times daily reduced pain measures and improved sleep.

 

And that was a study almost 8 years ago. We've come a long way since.