MARIJUANA MAY STIMULATE AGEING BRAINS

Specific elements of marijuana can be good for the ageing brain by
reducing inflammation and possibly stimulating the formation of new
brain cells, according to Ohio State University researchers.

The research suggests that the creation of a drug with certain
properties similar to those in marijuana might help prevent or delay
Alzheimer's disease. The exact cause of Alzheimer's is still not
known, but chronic inflammation in the brain is believed to contribute
to memory impairment.

"Could people smoke marijuana to prevent Alzheimer's disease if the
disease is in their family?" asked Gary Wenk, professor of psychology
at Ohio State University and an investigator on the study. "We're not
saying that, but it might actually work.

What we are saying is it appears that a safe, legal substance that
mimics those important properties of marijuana can work on receptors
in the brain to prevent memory impairments in ageing. So that's really
hopeful."