Can Cannabidiol Help Prevent and Treat Gastrointestinal Disorders? Expert Opinions.

“`html

Numerous individuals search for a “cannabis store near me” to acquire marijuana, whether it’s for managing their condition or simply for recreational use. People generally understand that cannabis products may aid in alleviating symptoms such as anxiety, depression, pain, nausea, and vomiting. Have you ever contemplated its impact on gastrointestinal disorders?

Key Takeaways:

• The cannabinoids in the plant interact with the endocannabinoid system in the GI tract.
• Cannabis and pain medications can assist in managing symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
• Cannabis Sativa has various uses, but most recognize it for its recreational and medical benefits.

Gastrointestinal Disorders and cannabis Plant

The dietary impacts of nutraceuticals on gastrointestinal (GI) health are widely recognized. Certain dietary approaches have the potential to prevent or alleviate various GI disorders. Researchers have identified, isolated, and assessed the food components responsible for these beneficial effects.

Among the plant-derived nutraceuticals that may benefit GI disorders are those sourced from cannabis. Cannabis refers to products derived from the cannabis Sativa plant, a fragrant annual flowering herb.

John M. McPartland, in a scientific review, concluded that the Cannabaceae family includes the genera Cannabis, Humulus, and Celtis. Within the cannabis genus, sativa encompasses three varieties: Sativa, Indica, and Ruderalis. It’s important to note that depending on the variety, cannabis sativa serves multiple functions, including fiber production, oil extraction from seeds, and primarily, recreational or medicinal uses.

The Impact of the Plant

Receptors and ligands of the endocannabinoid system are present in various areas and systems, both within and outside the GI tract, which are relevant to regulating GI functions. Due to the presence of cannabinoid receptors, cannabinoids, including non-psychoactive phytocannabinoids, help modulate GI functions in health and disease. The ECS plays a crucial role in regulating motility, secretion, epithelial barrier function, and viscerosensitivity.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS has many contributing factors, commonly affecting 10–20% of individuals in developed countries. It presents as functional gastrointestinal disturbances without identifiable organic causes.

The enhancement of the antinociceptive properties of cannabinoids in the presence of inflammation highlights the significance of the ECS in visceral hypersensitivity. This discovery not only clarifies the mechanisms behind conditions like IBS and other gastrointestinal disorders but also suggests promising therapeutic pathways for alleviating abdominal and visceral pain.

Cannabinoids alone may not provide substantial relief in reducing visceral hypersensitivity in IBS patients. Investigating combinations with other pain-modulating agents, such as opioids, presents an intriguing alternative worth exploring.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

IBD, including Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), is a complex condition of the GI tract. These diseases result from environmental, genetic, and epigenetic factors.

Cannabidiol exhibits robust anti-inflammatory properties across various models of intestinal inflammation in rodents, as noted in a study published in the Journal of Frontiers in Pharmacology. Both local and systemic administration of CBD demonstrated a dose-dependent improvement in disease indicators:

• The reduction of structural damage
• The mitigation of inflammation-related increases in various cytokines, chemokines, and oxidative stress markers.

A study from the Inflammatory Diseases Journal indicates that a significant finding of their research was the challenging tolerability of the botanical extract, with 90% of patients reporting treatment-related adverse effects compared to 48% receiving the placebo.

A trend emerged toward improved quality of life scores and a positive shift in patients’ overall impression of change, according to the per-protocol analysis. The authors speculate that the CBD-rich botanical extract may offer therapeutic advantages to patients who can tolerate its effects.

Gastrointestinal Cancer

GI cancers, particularly colorectal cancer (CRC), are among the most frequently diagnosed conditions in the general population.

Multiple studies have demonstrated CBD’s antiproliferative effects in colorectal cancer models. CBD has the ability to protect DNA from oxidative stress, elevate endocannabinoid levels, and inhibit the proliferation of colorectal cancer cells in vitro.

The affirmation of CBD’s chemopreventive properties was established through investigations in vivo focusing on AOM-induced colon cancer. CBD at a dosage of 1 mg/kg led to a significant reduction: ACF decreased by 67%, while the number of tumors and polyps dropped by 66% and 57%, respectively. Increasing the concentration to 5 mg/kg showed effectiveness primarily in preventing polyp formation.

THC induces apoptosis in colorectal cancer cells through the activation of the CB1 receptor.

Nausea and Vomiting

Positive effects of CBD occur when combined with THC, as indicated in a study published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology. CBD’s anti-nausea and anti-emetic properties could arise from the indirect stimulation of somatodendritic 5-HT1A receptors located in the dorsal raphe nucleus. This activation of autoreceptors may result in a reduction of 5-HT release in specific forebrain regions.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Cannabinoids inhibit transient LES relaxations via a CB1-dependent mechanism in both dogs and ferrets, as noted in a study from the Journal of cannabis and Cannabinoid Research. These findings are significant as transient LES relaxations are the primary mechanism underlying gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Cannabis Sativa for GI Issues

Conclusion

Numerous studies suggest that the benefits of cannabinoids extend beyond the well-known psychoactive compound THC to include non-psychoactive molecules like CBD and others, which have received comparatively less attention. The cannabis plant influences the GI system by engaging with the ECS to initiate various functions that can aid in managing symptoms of certain GI conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can you expect when buying from online cannabis stores?

1. Accessing your cannabis products in Canada from an online store provides many options featuring both classic favorites and new products.
2. You can anticipate additional perks such as special deals, reliable payment methods, and shipping options covering most provinces.
3. Essential resources, like a blog section or contact page, are available to offer customers insights or assistance during their shopping journey.
4. As part of the purchasing process, you’ll need to verify or confirm your age by presenting identification.
5. Some stores include taxes in the total price of their products, while others calculate it at checkout.
6. Some dispensaries accept online payments like Interac E-Transfer, while others permit cash on delivery.

What is the measurement unit when buying from a cannabis website?

There are two main forms of measurement: metric and imperial units. On a cannabis site, you’ll encounter measurements in grams or ounces, which allows you to find products like 3.5 grams or 1/8 ounces.

What distinguishes cannabis for medical use from that used recreationally?

Medical cannabis and recreational cannabis derive from the same plant species, yet their differing effects and intended uses distinguish them. Medical cannabis acts as a therapeutic aid for specific health conditions, with a higher CBD content compared to its recreational counterpart.

Are there ready-made joints available in a cannabis store?

Yes. These are available as pre-rolls. Cannabis pre-rolls, or pre-rolled joints and blunts, offer convenient options for those who prefer their cannabis ready for use. There is a growing trend in the popularity of pre-rolled joints infused with cannabis concentrates.

Do cannabis online stores have a physical shop?

Not all online stores maintain physical locations, which means you can have your purchases delivered directly to your doorstep instead of needing to pick them up from a physical store after placing an online order.

“`