Gastrointestinal disorders afflict the digestive tract. They typically involve the stomach, esophagus, small intestine, large intestine, and rectum. In some cases, the liver pancreas and gallbladder are also affected. GI tract disorders tend to cause excessive discomfort and pain. Many individuals turn to anti-inflammatories, steroids, and pain relievers to cope. However, a multitude of symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders can be relieved using cannabidiol (CBD) and medicinal marijuana.
Types of Gastrointestinal Diseases That Benefit from Marijuana
There are two categories of GI disorders, functional and structural.
- Functional GI Disorders: Functional disorders simply mean that the GI tract remains functional but does not operate at peak performance. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and Crohn’s disease are two examples of functional disorders of the GI tract.
- Structural Disorders: Structural disorders are abnormal issues combined with a malfunctioning GI system. Anal fissures, colon polyps, and hemorrhoids are all classified as structural disorders.
Symptoms of Gastrointestinal Disorders
Common symptoms of a malfunctioning GI tract include
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Excessive gas
CBD and GI Disorders
Within the human body is an intricate pathway known as the endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system is made of CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 and CB2 receptors work inside the body to transmit messages and assist certain functions such as the immune system. Cannabinoids found in cannabis bind with the body’s CB1 and CB2 receptors to reduce inflammation, relieve nausea, and even help ease the pain of GI tract disorders. Cannabidiol (CBD), one of the main cannabinoids found in cannabis has been found to be extremely useful in treating gastrointestinal disorders. When CBD is ingested, it helps to calm the symptoms of GI disorders and reduce inflammation. In a study undertaken by the New York University Medical Center in New York, New York. it was found that a sizeable number of patients effectively use CBD to treat their inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It relieves their symptoms of pain, nausea, and appetite. CBD also improve their overall mood. Although not a cure, CBD’s ability to enhance the lives of IBD sufferers is undeniable.
THC and the Gastrointestinal Tract
Tetrahydro cannabidiol (THC) is a cannabinoid found in cannabis that produces psychoactive effects. THC has been widely used to combat nausea, especially in cancer suffers undergoing chemotherapy. Undoubtedly, its effects on the GI system are widespread and beneficial. However, THC laden marijuana is illegal in many states, so users must turn to CBD substitutes. Also, THC tends to be difficult to use with accuracy. Too little will not effectively treat the problem and too much THC causes other physical issues.
Purchasing CBD for GI Tract Disorders
CBD products are available throughout the United States and in many other parts of the world. You can purchase CBD via online retailers, at local vape shops, or at cannabis dispensaries. CBD and THC products are often available to medical marijuana users or in states and countries, such as Canada, where recreational marijuana is legal.
Pets and CBD
Many pets suffer from gastrointestinal issues and CBD appears to be an effective treatment aid. CBD in veterinary medicine is becoming more widely prescribed the cannabinoid’s abilities to treat GI disorders become more commonplace.
When purchasing CBD products, always make sure that the CBD comes from a reputable distributor and has undergone third-party lab testing to guarantee purity.