Medical Marijuana for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Weed And IBD

People with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have the option of treatment with medical cannabis. IBD can take on two forms, Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis, which are chronic disorders involving inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.

Can Marijuana Help Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD)?

While there is no cure for IBD, some studies have shown that cannabis and IBD can stimulate the patient’s appetite and improve the quality of life for those with inflammatory bowel disease. Symptoms and effectiveness of weed and IBD can vary from patient to patient. 

Cannabis And Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease is one of the two forms of IBD, which are chronic disorders involving inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Crohn's disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract. Some people affected by the disease say that medical cannabis strains, including Sativa, can be helpful in managing symptoms such as abdominal pain, joint pain, cramping, diarrhea, poor appetite, weight loss, bloating, bloody stools, fever, and nausea. Still, medical cannabis should be considered a replacement for conventional treatment and medications designed for Crohn’s disease.

Does Weed Help Ulcerative Colitis?

Ulcerative colitis is a form of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) that involves the digestive tract and causes both ulcers and inflammation, affecting the lining of the rectum and large intestine. While cannabis can help with some of the IBD-related symptoms, there is currently no evidence that medical marijuana can improve or reduce ulcerative colitis disease activity.

Is THC An Anti Inflammatory?

Medical cannabis, especially strains high in THC, has been found to have anti-inflammatory effects on the body. THC, the primary psychoactive component in marijuana, has been shown to help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in the body. This property of THC has led to its use in helping with symptoms from a variety of conditions, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, two forms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).

Can Weed Help IBS?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a separate condition from Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), but it shares some similar symptoms. However, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before using medical cannabis for IBS, as it may interact with other medications or treatments being used. Additionally, some states may have specific requirements for obtaining a medical marijuana card for IBS, so it is important to understand the laws in your area.

Does Weed Help With Stomach Issues?

Preliminary research suggests that medical cannabis has been said to help with a number of stomach-related symptoms, including abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, and nausea. Additionally, cannabis has been found to help stimulate the appetite, which can be beneficial for those experiencing weight loss as a result of their IBD symptoms. It is important to note that while medical cannabis can help with some stomach-related symptoms, it is not a cure for IBD and should only be used as a complementary therapy under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Does Weed Help With Diarrhea?

Medical marijuana for IBD can be useful when managing symptoms, including helping to reduce diarrhea. Studies show that cannabis can help delay gastric acid secretion in the gastronomical tract, helping to reduce the inflammation that contributes to diarrhea. 

** This information stated above should in no way constitute medical advice for patients with Inflammatory bowel disease. Consult a medical professional before using medical marijuana for IBD symptoms.