Marijuana 'can reduce chronic stress and depression'

Medical marijuana has the potential be used to treat depression caused by chronic stress, researchers have said.

In a study looking at endocannabinoids – chemicals in the brain similar to substances found in cannabis – scientists found chronic stress its reduced the production, which led to depression-like behaviour in animals studied.

The team, from the University at Buffalo's Research Institute on Addictions in New York, noted that endocannabinoids are a naturally produced chemical compound that affect motor control, cognition, emotions and behaviour.

They are similar to the chemicals found in marijuana and the active ingredient in it – THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol).

Senior researcher Samir Haj-Dahmane said: "Chronic stress is one of the major causes of depression. Using compounds derived from cannabis — marijuana — to restore normal endocannabinoid function could potentially help stabilise moods and ease depression."

Their findings were published in the Journal of Neuroscience.

http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/marijuana-can-reduce-chronic-stress-depression-1486715