Managing Symptoms of IBD and Crohn’s with Cannabis
Cannabis and its naturally occurring compounds like CBD and THC are widely regarded for their anti-inflammatory effects.
Many people have begun to use cannabis to help manage their symptoms resulting from serious conditions like IBD and Crohn’s disease, which affect our body’s digestive tract in painful and debilitating ways. So what does the science say? How exactly might cannabis help alleviate your digestive ailments?
Many of the studies listed below highlight the fact that many people who suffer from IBD and use cannabis report improved quality of life. There seems to be a shared experience among users that not only does cannabis directly influence the easing of digestive symptoms, but also peripheral issues such as joint pain and sleep difficulties. Many of the patients use cannabis as part of a regime of self care, and in addition to prescribed medications.
Products we’ve recommended
There are several cannabis products available that can address a broad scope of needs for those who suffer from digestive ailments. These products are formulated with cannabinoids and terpenes known for their therapeutic effects. The Novel Tree Medical’s state-certified medical cannabis consultants may recommend these based upon a person’s unique set of needs, and provide insight on dosage and frequency of use.
Digestify by Fairwinds. Available in tincture and vape form.
5 Studies That Support Cannabis Use for IBD and Crohn’s
Insights into the role of cannabis in the management of inflammatory bowel disease
In an anonymous questionnaire-based study, IBD patients reported that cannabis improved abdominal pain (83.9%), abdominal cramping (76.8%), joint pain (48.2%), and, to a lesser extent, diarrhea (28.6%) Link to study
Therapeutic Use of Cannabis in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
As the therapeutic use of cannabis gains more attention in the press, there is growing recognition of a fraction of IBD patients who are using cannabis for symptomatic control of their IBD, reportedly with successful management of abdominal pain, joint pain, cramping, diarrhea, poor appetite, weight loss, and nausea. Link to study
Cannabinoids for treating inflammatory bowel diseases: where are we and where do we go?
From first surveys and small clinical studies in patients with IBD we have learned that Cannabis is frequently used to alleviate diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. Single ingredients from Cannabis, such as THC and cannabidiol, commonly described as cannabinoids, are responsible for these effects. Link to study
Use of Medical Cannabis in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease
In a prospective pilot study, IBD patients who were using medical cannabis as needed for pain control experienced improvements in pain, general health perception, social functioning, ability to work, and symptoms associated with IBD. Link to study
Cannabis Induces a Clinical Response in Patients With Crohn's Disease: A Prospective Placebo-Controlled Study
Although the primary end point of the study (induction of remission) was not achieved, a short course (8 weeks) of THC-rich cannabis produced significant clinical, steroid-free benefits to 10 of 11 patients with active Crohn's disease, compared with placebo, without side effects Link to study
Interested in a free medical cannabis consultation? Contact us today!