Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks the tissue of the digestive system. This can cause inflammation, swelling, and pain in the digestive tract. It can also cause fatigue and a frequent need to use the bathroom. Crohn’s is considered an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), along with ulcerative colitis (UC).

Some people use cannabis to manage Crohn’s symptoms like pain and swelling. Certain cannabis compounds may help reduce inflammation caused by Crohn’s disease.

Research on cannabis for Crohn’s disease

Some research shows that cannabis can reduce pain and swelling in the digestive system. Compounds in cannabis called cannabinoids have anti-inflammatory properties that may help relieve symptoms of Crohn’s and other autoimmune diseases.

Your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) balances bodily functions like:

• Inflammation
• Pain tolerance
• Mood
• Digestive function

Cannabinoids help support the endocannabinoid system by interacting with receptors that keep these functions in balance. Some researchers believe that endocannabinoid system dysfunction is associated with Crohn’s and that cannabis can help restore balance to the body.

One study found that people with Crohn’s who used cannabis had fewer symptoms, needed lower doses of other medications, and experienced an improved quality of life.

Cannabis’s dominant cannabinoid, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), may help relieve Crohn’s-related pain, nausea, and diarrhea. Cannabidiol (CBD), another cannabis cannabinoid, can help lower stress and inflammation. Cannabinoids interact with gut bacteria, which may also help reduce inflammation.

However, most studies on cannabis for Crohn’s disease are small. Further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety for long-term use. Medical cannabis is not a replacement for current treatments, although it may be helpful as an additional therapy.

Using cannabis for Crohn’s disease

Some people with Crohn’s disease use cannabis to help with pain, swelling, and trouble eating. While there are benefits, there are also potential side effects, as with any medication. Speak with a doctor to decide if cannabis is the right choice for managing symptoms.

Benefits

Cannabis may help people with Crohn’s disease in several ways, including:

• Pain relief: Cannabis may help reduce stomach pain and cramping.
• Decreased swelling: Some cannabis compounds can help lower swelling in the digestive system.
• Better appetite: Cannabis can stimulate appetite in individuals who struggle to eat.
• Improved sleep: Cannabis may help you sleep better by reducing stress, pain, and discomfort.

Risks and side effects

Using cannabis for Crohn’s disease can also have some downsides, including:

• Feeling tired (fatigue): In some cases, cannabis can cause drowsiness.
• Upset stomach: Cannabis can cause stomach discomfort in some people.
• Studies with mixed results: One study shows that while cannabis can relieve symptoms in people with Crohn’s, it could also lead to worse long-term outcomes. Another study shows that while cannabis can help with various digestive issues, long-term use, in rare cases, may cause other digestive symptoms like vomiting.

Is it legal?

Cannabis laws vary depending on where you live. Crohn’s disease is a common qualifying condition in states with medical cannabis programs. In states where it’s not a qualifying condition, you may qualify for chronic pain.

In states where medical cannabis is legal and recreational cannabis is not, you will need a doctor’s approval and a medical cannabis card to access cannabis.

More about Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease is a long-term condition that affects the digestive system. It can be caused by:

• Genetics,
• A dysfunctional immune system
• Environmental factors like stress or pollution

Common symptoms include stomach pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue. In severe cases, Crohn’s can cause rectal bleeding and fever.

Many Crohn’s disease symptoms are similar to those of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). However, fever isn’t common with IBS. Ulcerative colitis (UC) is similar to Crohn’s, but Crohn’s can affect any part of the digestive system, while UC is limited to the colon.

Doctors diagnose Crohn’s disease using various tests, including blood work, imaging, and colonoscopy. There is no cure, but treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

In 2020, about 2.39 million Americans had IBD, with 1.011 million being people with Crohn’s disease.

Other treatments for Crohn’s disease

Besides cannabis, there are other ways to treat Crohn’s disease.

Traditional therapies

Medications and treatments keep inflammation and symptom triggers under control.

• Medications: Doctors may prescribe medicine to reduce swelling and control symptoms.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged parts of the digestive system.
• Diet: A healthy diet that limits processed foods can help manage symptoms.

Natural and alternative therapies

Complementary therapies can help control stress, anxiety, and pain associated with Crohn’s.

• Probiotics: Consuming “good” bacteria can improve gut health.
• Stress management: Practices such as yoga and meditation can help reduce stress, which can contribute to symptom flare-ups.
• Herbal and spice supplements: Certain herbs, such as turmeric and Boswellia, may support digestive health.
• Vitamin supplements: Individuals with Crohn’s disease may develop vitamin D and B12 deficiencies, so supplementation may be beneficial.

Cannabis as part of your treatment plan for Crohn’s disease

Cannabis might help you manage Crohn’s disease symptoms, but it’s always best to speak to a doctor before introducing a new treatment into your regimen. In many states, people with Crohn’s disease can access medical cannabis with a medical marijuana card. Contact Leafwell to meet with a healthcare provider in your state and obtain a medical card online.

Frequently asked questions

There are several commonly asked questions about using cannabis for Crohn’s disease symptoms.

Can cannabis cure Crohn’s disease?

No, but cannabis may help with Crohn’s symptoms like pain and swelling. Cannabis contains many compounds with anti-inflammatory properties.

Does CBD help with bowel issues?

It can. CBD’s anti-inflammatory effects may provide relief from certain symptoms related to different bowel disorders, like cramping, gas, and bloating.

What cannabis is best for Crohn’s?

Everyone’s different, so what works for one person may not work for another. High-CBD products and products containing equal parts THC and CBD are a good starting point, as they can manage symptoms with a lower risk of side effects.

Can CBD help with Crohn’s disease?

Cannabinoids like CBD have anti-inflammatory properties that may help with Crohn’s disease and IBD, but the evidence is limited. Using THC in combination with CBD may offer more anti-inflammatory benefits and more significant pain relief.

Can smoking make Crohn’s worse?

There’s no evidence that smoking cannabis makes Crohn’s symptoms worse. However, consider trying another administration method, as smoking can irritate the respiratory system.

Can weed cause Crohn’s disease?

There is no evidence that using cannabis increases the risk of Crohn’s disease.

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