#CannabisResearch

A new wave of scientific research challenges some of the most common beliefs about using cannabis to treat health problems such as pain, insomnia, and mental health symptoms like paranoia, highlighting important lessons for Thai readers at a time when medical marijuana access is rapidly expanding in Thailand and across Asia.

The use of cannabis as medicine has surged since Thailand became the first Southeast Asian country to decriminalize cannabis plants in 2022—a move initially aimed to stimulate medical innovation and boost the economy through wellness tourism. But as ever more Thais purchase cannabis products online and at street dispensaries, fresh global research underscores that the effectiveness—and risks—of cannabis for many health problems are far from settled, with strong implications for the Thai public, patients, and caregivers (Washington Post, Medical News Today).

A new wave of fitness enthusiasts is challenging the long-standing stereotype of the “lazy stoner,” as growing evidence—and candid testimony—suggests that cannabis is helping people exercise, find joy in workouts, and perhaps even unlock their own version of a “runner’s high.” As recently reported by Yahoo! News, and supported by emerging research, people like Mark, a father in his 40s, are using cannabis products such as vape pens or edibles to make their training more enjoyable and less monotonous. Mark credits cannabis with helping him complete the demanding months of training for his first marathon, saying, “I definitely could have run the marathon without the marijuana, but I don’t know how easily I could have completed the training without it” (Yahoo! News).

In an exciting development, a Brazilian study has highlighted cannabidiol (CBD) as a potential supplement in easing autism symptoms in children and young adults. Researchers from the University of São Paulo have found that oral CBD intake led to significant improvements in social skills, reduced aggression, and eased tantrums among young participants. This promising research, presented at the 2025 European Congress of Psychiatry, suggests that CBD could be incorporated into autism treatment plans alongside traditional therapies. However, experts remain cautious, calling for larger trials to confirm these findings.

Recent research has highlighted potential heart risks associated with the use of marijuana and other THC-containing products. This warning comes as the popularity of cannabis continues to rise globally, including in parts of Asia, where regulatory discussions and policy shifts are increasingly advocating for medical and recreational access. Understanding these health implications is crucial, especially for a nation like Thailand, which recently made significant changes to its cannabis policies with the decriminalization of the plant.