Explore the Top 5 Marijuana Strains to Alleviate Gastrointestinal Pain
Numerous studies and surveys confirm that gastrointestinal pain is one of the common ailments. The condition is one of the leading diseases or symptoms for many individuals seeking an outpatient clinic visit. In 2019, the Gastroenterology authors published a special article that focused on the burden and cost of various diseases in the United States, including pancreatic, liver, and gastrointestinal pain (GI). The article analyzed data from 2015, where the total annual healthcare expenditure on GI pain and disease amounted to $136 billion. In addition, the article showed that the country recorded more than 54 million ambulatory visits, where GI pain was the primary diagnosis.
While these figures look alarming, most individuals were not surprised as a certain survey in 2013 suggested that approximately three-quarters of residents in the US have reported GI complications more often. The worst scenario is that GI pain can signify or present a more serious life-threatening condition.
The statistics show that among Americans in the hospital wards for GI pains, at least four may have various debilitating conditions, like acute appendicitis, diverticulitis, acute pancreatitis, and gallstones.
While numerous treatment options and prescribed medications exist, many patients are switching to medical marijuana. Most individuals believe that medical cannabis is one of the safest and most effective natural options to relieve GI pain. Despite the benefits of using medical marijuana to alleviate GI pains, it'll be wise to seek medical care when having these conditions or related symptoms before opting for this natural remedy.
This article provides an overview of the condition and explores the top five marijuana strains you can consider to alleviate the pain and discomfort the condition causes. However, it's good to understand that there is no clinical support to show the effectiveness and safety of these marijuana strains.
What is Gastrointestinal Pain?
Experts relate the term Gastrointestinal pain to a wide range of issues affecting the abdominal region, including excessive gas and bloating. Remember, gastrointestinal pains may also come with other digestive system complications like constipation, diarrhea, etc.
Studies show that individuals with these conditions or issues are at a greater risk of having a life-threatening condition, which makes it essential to visit a qualified healthcare provider for assessment and treatment. In some individuals, the pain may be a symptom of severe conditions like celiac disease, Exocrine Pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), Crohn's disease, or other debilitating conditions.
The EPI is of more medical concern as the condition results from an improperly working pancreas. When having the condition, the pancreas is usually unable to produce the appropriate amount of enzymes that the system requires for digestion. Studies link this disease to various medical complications like pancreatic cancer or diabetes.
Studies show that the other complications that can trigger gastrointestinal pain include inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is a common intestinal disorder having a wide range of symptoms, including stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, gassiness, and bloating. Many patients with the condition have reported relief from the symptoms after defecating.
In contrast, IBD refers to a condition or term representing Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Ulcerative colitis results in inflammation or pain in the inner lining of the large intestines. In contrast, Crohn's disease leads to inflammation or discomfort in the digestive tract layers.
Symptoms of the Gastrointestinal Pain
Studies link numerous symptoms to this condition. For instance, HealthLine lists numerous potential symptoms of this condition and more than 150 reasons for the pain. The common symptom of this gastrointestinal condition is cramp-like pain, which comes and goes after a short duration. In addition, when having the disease, you'll be feeling localized pain in a certain region or area of the abdomen. Experts link this discomfort or pain to various problems or issues affecting one of the internal organs.
Remember, different diseases or conditions come with a different or unique set of symptoms. For instance, ulcerative colitis may cause diarrhea, rectal bleeding, and abdominal cramps. Regardless of the condition or gastrointestinal cases, it'll be appropriate to visit a healthcare provider when you experience the following symptoms:
● Vomiting blood
● Bloody stools
● Difficulties in breathing
● High fever
● Yellowing of the skin or eyes
● Persistent nausea or vomiting
● Severe tenderness or swelling of the abdomen
Living With Gastrointestinal Pain
With the high prevalence and incidence among most Americans, it's evident that most individuals are living with this condition. While the condition doesn't cause disturbing symptoms or link to a debilitating condition, gastrointestinal pain can make your life uncomfortable.
Some studies reveal that individuals with a functional GI disorder may also be having centrally mediated abdominal pain (CAPS). Experts further suggest that it's one of the most frustrating conditions in the medical community, as medical professionals can't find or detect its cause using lab findings or X-rays. Pain resulting from CAP can be very severe, affecting or impacting your ability to carry out your routine activities.
Experts reveal that the disease can remain undetected for a long time when the GI pain results from a more severe condition. However, you can only get the condition or real cause of the pain by scheduling a medical examination. Failure to seek medical attention may cause the pain to be too much or unbearable.
Traditional or Conventional Remedies to Alleviate Gastrointestinal Pain
Gastrointestinal pain that doesn't link to any serious condition has a wide range of conventional remedies. Nevertheless, with this disease's complex and broad nature, it's possible that most treatments may be ineffective and even result in adverse side effects. These adverse effects or ineffectiveness occur when the medication or intervention doesn't aim or target the right or specific source of discomfort or pain. Below are popular conventional treatment options.
Chamomile or peppermint tea
Peppermint tea has various properties or ingredients that help the body relax, specifically the digestive system, hence helping to alleviate discomfort or pain. Studies show that you can use chamomile tea as an anti-inflammatory. The anti-inflammatory properties in the tea can help relax your stomach muscles and reduce spasms or cramping.
Medication
Instead of using natural treatment options, you can opt for over-the-counter drugs. Medical professionals advise you to consider medications for gas like Mylanta and Gas-X or for heartburn like Zantac. In addition, Tylenol is another common gastrointestinal medication to alleviate different pains in the digestive tract. Nevertheless, it'll be appropriate to keep off NSAIDs such as aspirin and ibuprofen, as they may result in irritation of the stomach.
Medical Studies on Cannabis for Gastrointestinal Pain
With marijuana being illegal in most states and locations, it's extremely difficult for researchers and scientists to conduct studies or research on the effects of this drug. Humans have used marijuana for a long time (approximately for centuries in the East & 100+ years in the West) to alleviate gastrointestinal pain.
Most studies link the effectiveness of marijuana in treating GI pain to the interaction with endogenous cannabinoid receptors. Marijuana has various cannabinoids that interact with the digestive system's cannabinoid receptors resulting in reduced spasms and pain.
Research on IBD and Cannabinoids.
In 2012, Lahat, Ben Horin, and Lang carried out a certain study and published the findings in the Journal, Digestion. The study focused on the impact of marijuana medical treatment alternatives on weight, quality of life, and activeness in patients with IBD. Despite being a small study, the researchers included 13 participants, where 11 had Crohn's disease, while two had ulcerative colitis. The study produced very promising results.
None of the participants or patients was using marijuana during the time of the study. The researchers administered an average of 50mg of marijuana during the study. The participants were to smoke the marijuana any time they felt like taking it for the three-month study duration. The findings showed that all 13 patients had consumed the entire 50-gram marijuana product, which helped them improve their health and quality of life.
The researchers used the Harvey-Bradshaw index to rate the symptoms of Crohn's disease. Among the study population, the HarveyBradshaw score showed that 11 participants who had used marijuana during the study duration recorded a drop in the symptoms from 11.36 to 5.72. In addition, all the patients showed a significant reduction in pain and a huge improvement or alleviation of abdominal pain levels.
Importantly, marijuana consumption improved the overall quality of life in these patients. Some also reported an increase in body weight averaging 4.3 kilograms during the three-month study duration. Lastly, the results showed improvement in the number of liquid stools, as the numbers reduced from 5.54 to 3.18.
In 2o16, Katz and Ahmed conducted a review, publishing its findings in the Gastroenterology & Hepatology Journal. The review focused on the therapeutic or health benefits of using marijuana for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This research team used data from previous scientific studies that researchers conducted to determine if marijuana use helps patients to deal with IBD.
In three studies, marijuana helped all the patients to improve their well-being or quality of life significantly. In addition, marijuana use helped these patients to gain weight and reduce the debilitating symptoms of this disease.
Nevertheless, the researchers warned that the lack of a marijuana safety profile could have led to detrimental effects. The review findings also noted that some IBD management alternatives, like corticosteroids, resulted in long-term side effects, like malignancy, infection, etc. With the promising results of marijuana in treating IBD, the researchers recommended that medical experts consider randomized, large, and double-blind control trials to check the effectiveness of marijuana for IBD. Furthermore, the studies should encompass safety profiles and long-term follow-up.
Understanding the Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) Condition
Despite the positive results of using marijuana to alleviate stomach conditions, you should also prepare for adverse outcomes. Cedar Sinai revealed that Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) is a condition that causes severe and repeated vomiting bouts. The condition is extremely rare but occurs in individuals with chronic marijuana use.
Nonetheless, not all chronic marijuana users will have the condition, as it varies among people. Researchers are yet to establish why the condition affects some marijuana users while it doesn't affect others.
The common symptoms of this condition that occurs in most chronic marijuana users include
● Ongoing nausea
● Stomach pain
● Decreased food intake and drastic body weight loss
● Repeated vomiting
● Severe dehydration symptoms
Unfortunately, the only effective way to alleviate the condition for chronic marijuana users is to stop using cannabis products. While CHS remains an unusual condition, researchers need to carry out research and studies to reveal more about the condition. Thus, it'll be good to beware of the overconsumption of marijuana and its adverse effects. This advice is contrary to the old saying that advises you to take more quantities of a good thing.
Top 5 Marijuana Strains to Alleviate Gastrointestinal Pain
Choosing the best marijuana strains will help you to achieve the best results and have fewer side effects. However, when using these strains, it's important always to use them in moderation. Below are the top marijuana strains you can consider for GI pain.
Tangerine
Despite having mysterious origins, experts believe this marijuana strain is a slightly Sativa-dominant hybrid. The manufacturer created the strains from around four times CH9 back cross from the CH9 Female seeds. It's one of the most potent strains, having approximately 13% to 18% THC content and a lower CBD concentration of up to 2%.
After taking these marijuana strains, most users usually start having a euphoric feeling followed by a feeling of happiness. After euphoric and happy feelings after taking Tangerine, the indica properties kick in. The strain’s indica side may give you mild sedative and calming effects. While the strain instills a relaxed feeling, don't expect to be sleepy after taking this marijuana strain.
Like its name, the strains provide one of the best tastes and flavors. Tangerine offers a zesty and sweet flavor, resembling pineapples and tangerines. Studies show that the marijuana strain is effective in alleviating chronic pain in GI patients. Besides helping with GI pain, you can use Tangerine to alleviate stress and calm you. You can take this strain at any time with a pleasant high feeling, as it won't interfere with your routine tasks or duties.
Blueberry Diesel
The blueberry diesel marijuana strain originates from California, where manufacturers cross a pair of top strains (Blueberry and Sour Diesel) to find this potent and powerful strain. It's good to understand that we've got another cannabis strain called Blueberry Diesel, which results from a cross of Purp Diesel and Blueberry Cheese.
Despite the numerous options, this article focuses on a Blueberry Diesel that's a slightly Indica-dominant hybrid. This strain has a high THC level, approximately between 24%, and 23%, while has a minimal CBD level.
This strain provides a relaxing and calming high to its consumers. You'll always feel more focused and calm than usual after a short time of taking this marijuana strain. The calm and focused effects come with a feeling of elation and happiness. Experts rank it as one of the top social strains due to its probability of inducing laughter. Generally, using this strain can result in or cause couchlock due to the presence of potent sedative properties and qualities.
The Blueberry is the perfect choice for the evening as its effects can last approximately for three hours. Many users enjoy the sweet Blueberry that provides a hint of diesel, giving you an extra kick. Many users have considered the strain to alleviate nausea and has properties that help to stimulate or enhance appetite levels. In addition, Blueberry can help GI patients to deal with anxiety and chronic pain. You can also use it to improve your quality of sleep and relaxation.
Tutankhamen
Manufacturers create this sativa-dominant hybrid from the potent AK47 strain. Pyramid Seeds are the leading manufacturer of this strain. The THC level usually varies from extreme (29%) to reasonable (18%) levels. Experts reveal that this can be effective in alleviating pain in GI patients due to its high strength of 'highness.' After taking the strains, the effects begin with a cerebral rush and later a feeling of being numb. The numbness feeling helps to alleviate or dull the pain feeling.
Research suggests that the strongest Tutankhamun cuts make the most potent marijuana strains. Most users have reported an intense head high after taking the strains, which later leads to a euphoric feeling. Despite the euphoric feeling, this strain doesn't affect mental clarity or focus. In contrast, the strain can stimulate creativity and better functionality. Taking the Tutankhamun strain can also enhance your energy levels. Lastly, the fruity and sweet flavors make the marijuana strain palatable.
Most medical marijuana patients prefer Tutankhamun because it creates a noteworthy high, enhances energy, and triggers a feeling of joy. Besides helping GI patients relieve pain, this potent marijuana strain effectively treats various conditions, including depression and PTSD.
Gigabud
Like its name, Gigabud is a common marijuana strain with numerous nugs. It's one of the slightly Indica dominant hybrid strains that manufacturers created by crossing the Big Bud and Northern Lights strains. The G13 breeders developed these strains to produce or trigger an intense physical high. This high could be instrumental in taking the minds off pain, feelings, or aches from the different body parts or organs. Breeders create it with a reasonable THC content, approximately 18-19%, and a low CBD content.
The strain may cause an intense cerebral high that may elevate your moods and boost your energy levels. Despite the high strength of high feeling, you'll remain with a clear and focused mind. The clear mind effect of this strain allows you to use the marijuana strains while having your routine chores continually. Nevertheless, Gigabud may make the body creep for higher doses, which can sometimes make it hard for you to move around. Some studies also show that you can use Gigabud to stimulate your appetite, which comes as a relief when the GI pain or discomfort makes it hard for you to eat.
Although it's not mouth-watering, this strain has a classic piney and herbal taste that makes it pleasant. Most medical cannabis users enjoy the physical high that they draw from this strain. In addition, it can help alleviate stress and improve sleep quality in patients with insomnia.
Durban Poison
It's one of the most potent cannabis strains that originate from Durban in South Africa. A certain US activist brought this pure sativa strain to the country in the 1970s. Due to the sativa-dominant nature, this strain provides an energetic cerebral high feeling. It has a THC content of between 16% and 26%, which makes it effective in alleviating various conditions.
Experts classify the Durban Poison as an invigorating strain that helps to relieve pain and enhance creativity. The strain creates an extremely stimulating cerebral high and can also help to enhance your moods. Most users prefer it due to its strong piney taste while inhaling or the delightful citrus tastes on the tongue.
Due to its medical properties, you can take the marijuana strain to alleviate conditions like depression, stress, and anxiety. Importantly, the Durban Poison doesn't have or result in sedating effects. You can use it to improve appetite and relieve nausea resulting from other treatments.
Final Words About Medical Marijuana and Gastrointestinal Pain
Gastrointestinal pain is one of the common conditions and can be life-threatening. The disease can result in abdominal pain that can lead to medical emergencies. Thus, it'll be wise to seek medical care once you feel severe pain in the abdominal area.
Studies show that marijuana can help improve gastrointestinal health and alleviate different types of severe pain. Nevertheless, if you're opting to switch to medical marijuana to alleviate gastrointestinal pain, it'll be good to consult or speak to your physician.
Medical marijuana can be an effective and safe natural alternative to improve gastrointestinal health and reduce pain. Applying for and getting your medical marijuana card will be vital to helping you access these products. HappyMD has a wide network of marijuana-friendly physicians who offer 42o medical marijuana card evaluations before allowing you to apply for the card. Join thousands of patients by applying for their medical marijuana card online via this telehealth platform.
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