Patrick Stewart Reveals He Uses Medical Marijuana

After wrapping up his tenure with the X-Men films this month, Patrick Stewart is in need of a [...]

By Megan Peters - March 16, 2017 10:30 pm EDT

After wrapping up his tenure with the X-Men films this month, Patrick Stewart is in need of a break. The 76-year-old actor bid farewell to his role as Professor Xavier when Logan debuted a few weeks back, and the actor has some time before his next projects begin. However, rather than resting, Stewart is speaking out and stepping up for a cause close to his heart.

In a recent statement, Stewart came forward and shared a sincere story with his fans which held a surprising confession. The decorated British actor admitted he uses marijuana nearly every day to alleviate an array of medical conditions. And, in the face of rising opposition, Stewart wants the public to educate themselves about the drug's health benefits.

To support a new initiative by Oxford University, Stewart explained he had a genetic condition that necessitated him to take the drug.

"Two years ago, in Los Angeles, I was examined by a doctor and given a note which gave me legal permission to purchase, from a registered outlet, cannabis-based products, which I was advised might help the ortho-arthritis in both my hands," Patrick wrote. "This, it would seem, is a genetically-based condition. My mother had badly distorted and painful hands."

But, if you were wondering if Stewart smoked blunts or bundled buds, then you can forget it. The actor said he usually takes his medication through topical treatments and edibles. Stewart went on to explain the benefits he has reaped thanks tot he medicine since marijuana had helped him regain more use of his hands.

"It helps with sleep as the pain was reduced…. believe that the ointment and spray have significantly reduced the stiffness and pain in my hands."

And, most importantly, the actor stressed he had not suffered any negative side effects from the medication. "I have had no negative side effects from this treatment and the alternative would have been to continue taking NSAID's, Advil, Aleve and Naproxen, which are known to be harsh on the liver and to cause acid reflux," he said before adding final support to Oxford's research study.

"This is an important step forward for Britain in a field of research that has for too long been held back by prejudice, fear and ignorance. I believe this programme of research might result in benefits for people like myself as well as millions of others."

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In Logan, in the near future, a weary Logan cares for an ailing Professor X in a hide out on the Mexican border. But Logan's attempts to hide from the world and his legacy are up-ended when a young mutant arrives, being pursued by dark forces.

Logan is directed by James Mangold, who co-wrote the screenplay with Scott Frank and Michael Green, from a story by Mangold, and also stars Patrick Stewart, Richard E. Grant, Boyd Holbrook, Stephen Merchant and Dafne Keen.