Two large European clinical studies suggest cannabis may be a more effective and tolerable alternative to opioids for chronic low back pain. One study, published in Nature Medicine, found a full-spectrum cannabis oil reduced pain more than a placebo. Another showed the same cannabis tincture provided greater relief and fewer digestive side effects than opioids over a six‑month period.

Experts say the findings mark an important step in validating cannabis-based treatments for pain management. Still, U.S. approval may be years away as federal regulators require additional research before any new products can enter the market.

Read the full story on MSN.