Could CBD really help with IBS, IBD, or even Chron’s? If  we take a look at what the research is saying, the outlook seems positive.

CBD has been touted as a natural solution for an assortment of ailments, including a broad range of gastrointestinal problems. Research shows that this plant-based solution can offer benefits for those who are trying to manage illnesses and disorders. Those suffering from digestive issues, or even just discomfort in the stomach, could find relief through CBD. 

Digestive problems usually bring an array of uncomfortable issues to mind, including diarrhea, constipation, and flatulence. But stomach problems can present many more symptoms than those.

There are several different conditions and issues that fall under the umbrella of digestive problems, and if you haven’t been diagnosed or consulted with a doctor, you may be confused as to what is actually going on with your stomach. Don’t worry, your author has been there and is still there. Stomach problems are debilitating, and can often feel defeating as they can affect everything from your energy levels to the clarity of your mind. But what would you say if I told you that cannabis could be helpful and provide symptomatic relief for everything from IBS to ulcerative colitis? That’s a tall claim, I know, and just remember the magic word ‘could.’ More studies need to be done to collect scientific data, but there are thousands of anecdotal reports that tell us cannabis could assist with stomach problems. Moreover, there are preliminary studies and research papers that point in the same direction as well.

But don’t just take my word for it, read on to find out a little bit more about what the research says. 

Let’s take a look at how cannabis can really benefit stomach conditions, and separate inflamed marketing from the truth. 

How Does it Work?

CBD and CBD-based products, like this high-quality extract oil, work for such a broad range of conditions due to their interaction with our body’s endocannabinoid system. This ECS is a system that most mammals have, and despite it being a relatively recent ‘discovery’ is connected to various essential body systems. If you are feeling a bit out of sorts, the chances are that your ECS is out of whack. An imbalanced immune system or inflammatory response, for example, could be connected to an imbalance in the ECS where there is either a miscommunication firing off messages to increase inflammation, or in the case of autoimmune disorders, your body is receiving signals to attack itself, or the attack the immune system. Yes, this is a very simplified way to put it. But if you want to know about the endocannabinoid system in more detail, then stay tuned to the blog- we will cover the most frequently asked questions as we set out to educate and dispel myths surrounding how cannabis interacts with our bodies and minds. 

Back to CBD and the ECS. The ECS is responsible for keeping your body systems in a status of homeostasis. This balance is essential for proper and supportive functioning. There are 

How does this Relate to Gastro Disorders?

Generally speaking, most stomach problems are connected to inflammation. Whether it is in the large intestine or the gut, most gastrointestinal problems will be with caused by or will cause inflammation in the organs in the digestive tract. CBD is a proven anti-inflammatory, and these beneficial qualities provide proven relief for many of the main symptoms that come with gastro disorders. Whether your main issue is pain, swelling, or anxiety and fatigue, CBD could offer you benefits that rival even the best pharmaceutical drugs- and with a fraction (if at all) of the side effects too!

Digestive Problems: What are they and what on earth causes them? 

Statistics show that as much as 40% of people report stomach problem-related symptoms. One long term issue is IBS, an issue that affects the large intestine. And while there are several pharmaceutical medications to treat IBS, the uncomfortable symptoms (cramps, painful bloating, flatulence, etc.) can manage to sneak past the pharmaceutical resistance, and people are often left seeking out alternative medications…

Digestive issues range from severe diseases like Crohn’s to common conditions like IBD. Irritable bowel disease affects approximately 700, 000 people in the US alone. 

With irritable bowel disorder, the digestive tract becomes inflamed, resulting in a myriad of uncomfortable and sometimes even severe side effects. 

Some side effects may be mild, but there are other subtle side effects that surface as your everyday life becomes impacted by the disorder. Daily life will need to adjust to suit the illness and flare-ups while the impacts on both social life and mental health will become more and more apparent. And on days where the symptoms are particularly exacerbated, you could even miss out on work or other activities. 

What is the cause of these kinds of gastric issues? Stomach conditions can be triggered by seemingly insignificant lifestyle changes, such as an adjusted diet, specific medication, or even more stress than usual. Gastric problems are generally known as functional disorders, and are accompanied by some of the following symptoms:

• Constipation
• Bloating
• Diarrhea
• Indigestion

The above-listed symptoms can also be experienced as a temporary digestive issue.

Why Choose CBD as a Treatment for Digestive Problems?

What is CBD? 

CBD is cannabidiol, a compound sourced from the cannabis plant species. The phytocannabinoid has caused a flurry of activity amongst researchers in recent years. The cannabis plant and the inherent compounds, such as phytocannabinoid CBD, has only recently come under such attention due to legal restrictions. Thanks to the recent legal developments over the years, researchers are beginning to understand how CBD and other cannabis-related compounds offers mammals (including us humans and our furry friends) a range of wellness benefits. 

Cannabis research is spurred on by the prospect of cannabinoid therapy, and we are beginning to see a host of medicinal benefits that could rival pharmaceutical medications. 

Turning now to the theme of this article, let’s take a look at the research highlighting the benefits CBD could offer people that are suffering from gastro disorders or symptoms. 

In this 2011 study, researchers documented that CBD’s interaction with the neuroimmune axis reduces intestinal inflammation. 

In other studies, the CBD cannabinoid exhibited an ability to reduce intestine spasticity and stimulate the appetite. When those painful abdominal cramps hit, it usually means that your intestine is contracted. 

Research indicates that CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties can reduce intestinal cramps. CBD interacts with the cannabinoid receptors present in the intestines, and this interaction can help to relieve cramps and even possibly regulate and normalize bowel movements.

Remember to have a chat with your trusted healthcare provider before you stop taking prescription medications and before you begin any new supplement. Please take a look through our range of quality cannabis products; we have something for everyone right here in our online store. If you are looking for almost instant symptomatic relief, take a look at these pure tinctures. Or perhaps a slower release and longer-lasting edible is more up your alley for all-day symptom management.

Whatever product you choose to use, reach out to our team and let us know how much you loved it!