New research in rats suggests that marijuana contains a compound that can help broken bones heal faster.
This claim sounds sensational, but Israeli scientists used cannabidiol, a chemical that does not alter perception although it is extracted from cannabis leaves. They administered it to rats with broken leg bones, and found that the rats given cannabidiol healed more quickly. Their bones laid down a stronger mineral matrix.
Psychoactive Compound Did Not Help Bones Heal Faster
The rats given a different component of marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol or THC, did not heal more quickly. It is the THC compound in marijuana that makes people high.
This study suggests that it is unlikely that smoking marijuana would have beneficial effects on bones. Nevertheless, cannabidiol might help broken bones heal faster and stronger. Further research on this possible application could be exciting.
