Star Trek and X-Men star Sir Patrick Stewart revealed that he uses cannabis to treat his arthritis.

Prior to seeing a doctor in Los Angeles who gave him legal permission to use a cannabis-based spray, ointment and pills, the 76-year old had painful and distorted hands. But now, after using these medications, he’s feeling much better.

The Logan star issued a statement in support of the United Kingdom’s first initiative exploring the benefits of cannabis-based medicines led by Oxford University. Obviously, Patrick is for it. Here’s what he had to say:

“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. This, it would seem, is a genetically-based condition. My mother had badly distorted and painful hands. I purchased an ointment, spray and edibles. The ointment, while providing some relief from the discomfort, was too greasy to use during daytime and so I only use it at night. It helps with sleep as the pain was reduced…

“The spray very quickly evaporates and leaves my hands quite dry, though with a slight burning or tingling sensation, which is not unpleasant. I believe that the ointment and spray have significantly reduced the stiffness and pain in my hands. I can make fists, which was not the case before I began this treatment.”

Patrick also says there have been no side effects, while the alternatives like Advil, Aleve, and Naproxen are actually known to cause issues in the liver.

“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,” he continued. “I believe this program of research might result in benefits for people like myself as well as millions of others.”

Currently in America, 28 states have legalized the use of marijuana for medicinal purposed — eight of those (Colorado, California, Oregon, Washington, Maine, Nevada, Alaska and Massachusetts) have legalized it for recreational use.