For many years, chronic conditions were considered untreatable and left people feeling helpless in their search for management and relief for their symptoms. Medical cannabis has been gaining more attention as a potential treatment for certain chronic conditions, like autoimmune diseases. In this blog post, I’ll explain what cannabis does to the body and explore the potential health benefits of cannabis for autoimmune conditions. So if you’re interested in learning more about harnessing the power of cannabis to manage chronic inflammation, keep reading!
What is medical cannabis?
Medical cannabis is a form of medicine derived from the Cannabis Sativa plant. Cannabis, as an alternative medicine, has been used for centuries to treat symptoms like nausea and pain. In recent years, the acceptance of medical cannabis has grown, and more doctors are prescribing it to manage chronic conditions like anxiety, epilepsy, cancer, and autoimmune diseases.
What is an autoimmune disease?
Autoimmune diseases are a group of conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attaches healthy cells and tissues, which can lead to inflammation, pain, and damage to different body systems. Common autoimmune diseases include lupus, type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, and celiac disease.
Symptoms of autoimmune disorders may include fatigue, muscle and joint pain, and chronic infections. Some symptoms are specific to certain conditions, like a butterfly-shaped rash on the face (Lupus) or an enlarged thyroid gland (Hashimoto’s). But for the most part, the symptoms overlap and can be triggered by viral or bacterial infections, genetic predispositions, environmental toxins, hormonal changes, and even physical or emotional stress. Additionally, there has been some evidence that suggests an association between gut health and autoimmune disorders. A healthy digestive tract is essential for preventing infections and maintaining a balanced immune system.
How does cannabis support the immune system?
Cannabis has a long history of being used to treat various medical conditions, including autoimmune diseases. The human body has an Endocannabinoid System (ECS), which helps regulate the immune system. Cannabinoids, like those found in cannabis, interact directly with the ECS to help maintain a healthy balance and function of the immune system.
Studies show that cannabinoids regulate and reduce inflammation, which helps promote homeostasis (or balance) in the body and protects the body from damage caused by infections or toxins. Cannabis contains antioxidants, which can help reduce the effects of free radicals (which damage other body cells), further boosting immune system health.
Cannabis can also help protect neurons from damage caused by oxidative stress and improve the body’s ability to fight off infection. Additionally, some studies suggest that cannabis may influence the protection of cytokines (immune system chemicals involved in inflammation). And the terpenes found in cannabis may also act as additional anti-inflammatory agents.
The Takeaway
Medical cannabis has emerged as an alternative treatment option for many chronic conditions, including autoimmune diseases. Although more research is needed to understand its many benefits, early studies show that it can help regulate immune system activity and inflammation throughout the body. Thus, making it an option for people who suffer from acute or chronic symptoms related to inflammatory conditions, including certain autoimmune disorders, and want to minimize their use of pain medication.
It’s important to remember that while cannabis may be an effective natural treatment for autoimmune diseases, it’s not a cure or without potential adverse effects. Cannabis could interact with other medications you’re taking. Also, different strains of cannabis, as well as different forms of consumption (e.g., edibles, vaping, or smoking), can have varying effects. It is crucial to discuss the potential risks and benefits of using cannabis with your physician before introducing it as a treatment, as they can help you determine the right course of treatment for your specific needs and ensure that treatment is safe and effective.