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Medical Cannabis for Gastroenterological Conditions

Medical Cannabis for Gastroenterological Conditions

Your digestive and gut health can have a profound effect on the quality of your daily life health. Evidence suggests that cannabis-based treatments could help the symptoms of IBS, fibromyalgia, and gut disorders like Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Available in the UK since 2018 on prescription from specialist doctors like those that work for Releaf, cannabis-based treatment plans can be carefully curated to the individual, to ensure their unique needs are met.

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Gastroenterological

Inflammatory digestive disorders are on the rise in the UK, with up to 70% of IBS patients suffering regularly from moderate to severe abdominal pain. Gastro conditions can be difficult to manage and the nature of the symptoms causes discomfort, disruption, and emotional distress. When dietary and lifestyle changes and traditional anti-inflammatories and steroids are not enough, cannabis-based treatments could be life-changing.

How Can Cannabis-Based Treatments Help?

Medical cannabis is a rich source of cannabinoids and some of the most potentially beneficial cannabinoids occur in the gut. Cannabinoids, most notably CBD, have been shown to offer anti-inflammatory properties that may play a role in maintaining gut health and digestive function. Gastrointestinal conditions can be triggered or worsened by chronic stress and anxiety. Both CBD and THC have been linked to reducing stress and having a calming effect on the mind.

12%

Of Brits are affected by inflammatory bowel syndrome.

10 million

People worldwide could live with Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

90%

Of those surveyed said IBD symptoms improved with CBPMs.

<3/4

of respondents said medical cannabis IBD treatments improved abdominal cramping.

Articles on Gastroenterological

29. 08. 2023

Understanding the link between cannabinoids and the digestive tract

The cannabis sativa L. plant is one of the most versatile, and potentially therapeutically beneficial types of flora to ever grace this pale blue dot we call home. It is one of the fastest-growing plants, takes less water to cultivate than the vast majority of other crops, and has a wide range of applications due to not only the presence of cannabinoids, but also its true variability in terms of the production of textiles, paper products, and food items.

13. 07. 2023

How effective is cannabis for ulcerative colitis?

Ulcerative colitis is a persistent inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) characterised by inflammation in the inner lining of the colon and rectum. This chronic condition has a diverse range of symptoms. These include diarrhoea, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain and general discomfort. The severity of these symptoms can fluctuate significantly. 

28. 07. 2023

What you need to know about cannabis and Crohn’s disease

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the gastrointestinal tract. It causes symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhoea, weight loss and fatigue. The condition can be difficult to manage, and traditional treatment methods may not always be effective. This has led some people to explore alternative, complementary therapies, such as medical cannabis.

What our patients say about us

  • Omar's story: how treating both mind and body led to IBS solutions

    Omar, 31, is a theatre director who, for years, has battled chronic pain and discomfort due to Irritable Bowel Syndrome. His story is an important one, because it highlights the difference between the holistic approach to healing that Releaf provides, and the conventional one that focuses on physical symptoms. Read more

    Condition Gastroenterological

    Subscriber 4 months

  • Music and medical cannabis: Regaining control after years of pain and anxiety

    I've actually been on this journey since about 12 years old, when I first started getting my period. From my very first period, I experienced more than normal levels of pain, and I was bleeding throughout the month. Read more

    Condition Gastroenterological

    Subscriber 7 months

    • You’ll be Supported By an Expert Medical Team

    “There is increasing evidence that medical cannabis can reduce the intensity of symptoms in patients with inflammatory bowel disease, albeit without altering what the condition looks like under the microscope. Irritable bowel syndrome similarly, although a distinct condition from both Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis, can be calmed down considerably by means of cannabinoid therapy.“

    Dr. Tang discussing medical cannabis treatment options in a professional setting
    Dr David Tang

    Clinical Director

    Common gastroenterological symptoms

    Abdominal pain

    Bloating

    Changes to bowel habits

    Difficulty swallowing

    Excessive gas

    Heartburn

    Nausea

    Rectal bleeding

    Unintended weight loss

    Vomiting

    Weakness and fatigue

    It's important to note that these symptoms are general and may not be exclusive to any specific gastroenterological condition. Consulting with a healthcare professional is crucial for accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plans based on individual needs.

    Common gastroenterological conditions

    Celiac Disease

    Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
    Crohn's DiseaseInflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
    Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)Ulcerative Colitis
    If you’re looking for an alternative to conventional medicine, cannabis-based treatments could be the answer to restore your quality of life. The first step is to find out if you’re eligible.
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