Editor's note: This article has been reviewed and updated for accuracy in 2026. The tide has certainly changed regarding cannabis use in recent years. There’s endless scientific evidence that confirms marijuana offers a myriad of medicinal benefits; in fact, it’s considered a natural “cure-all” among naturopaths and those who want to break free from the pharmaceutical industry and the products they tout that offer little benefit at best, and at worst, that can cause serious adverse health effects. Neurological and mental disorders (anxiety, depression, epilepsy, post-traumatic stress disorder, Parkinson’s disease, etc.), pain management (arthritis, fibromyalgia, chronic migraines, etc.), cancer-related symptoms (symptoms related to the disease itself, as well as the side effects of treatment); the health benefits that cannabis offers are undeniable. Those who don’t suffer from physical and/or mental health problems also benefit from weed use, as it is said to promote more spiritual connectedness, it enhances mood (in a good way), and it just makes people feel good. Given the numerous scientifically-supported mental, physical, and emotional benefits that marijuana use provides, combined with legislation that has lega