Does Weed Help With Stomach Issues? Relief & Benefits
This post is part of our Best Dispensaries in Utah series, brought to you by Cannabist Utah.
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
From nausea to IBS, stomach issues are a common health concern that affect us all. But while tummy troubles aren’t a pleasant experience, there are plenty of treatment options that may be able to help—including cannabis. Available in many forms, cannabis products won’t provide a catch-all cure for stomach problems. However, careful use of the substance may help mitigate symptoms and help make recovery easier.
Whatever condition you’re facing, it’s essential to talk to a doctor to get a thorough diagnosis and explore treatment options. And if you’re interested in cannabis treatment, this conversation is especially important in states where only medical marijuana use is legal—such as Utah. Specifically, your physician can provide necessary resources to help you obtain a medical marijuana card if your stomach condition qualifies.
To help you navigate this topic, here’s an in-depth look at the common question: Does weed help with stomach issues?
Table of Contents
Weed and Stomach Issues
Does weed help with stomach issues? In short, it is believed that “weed” could potentially help provide some relief for many related conditions. But to really understand this connection, it’s important to look at how cannabis might be able to benefit digestive health.
Cannabinoids—compounds found in marijuana—are believed to be the main reason this natural substance can help. When cannabis is used, common cannabinoids—such as THC and CBD—enter the body and bind to receptors found throughout the nervous system and gastrointestinal tract.
These interactions may influence gut health in a variety of ways.
For example, some receptors may respond by slowing down the digestive process and easing nausea sensations. Other activated receptors may minimize inflammation, which can help ease symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or ulcerative colitis.
Triggered receptors may also release hormones that influence digestive processes—such as ghrelin, which is thought to speed up digestion and boost appetite. Similarly, THC is believed to increase dopamine—a “feel good” hormone that can minimize one’s perception of stomach pain or cramping.
Is Smoking Weed the Only Way to Consume THC for Stomach Issues Treatment?
Smoking weed is one of the most immediate ways to experience effects, as it introduces cannabinoids to the body quickly. However, there are many other methods of cannabis use that may be able to relieve digestive health issues.
For many, the smell of weed may trigger nausea. Fortunately, you can use a vaporizer—such as a weed pen—to heat up cannabis oil so it can be inhaled without producing that tell-tale smoky odor.
If you’re good to snack on something, you might also prefer eating marijuana edibles, which are available in a variety of forms—such as gummies, lollipops, cookies, and chocolate bars. However, since edibles need to be digested to introduce cannabinoids to the body, they won’t deliver effects as quickly as smoking would.
While cannabis-infused topicals—such as creams or lotions—are believed to reduce inflammation and promote pain relief in localized areas of the body, they aren’t necessarily ideal for stomach issues.
Best Strains for Stomach Issues
When it comes to weed and stomach issues, there are numerous strains to choose from. While there is no “best” strain to relieve digestive discomfort, current research suggests that THE-dominant products may offer the biggest benefit.
While medical research on the topic is limited, THC is believed to be more effective at promoting relief from digestive health symptoms than CBD alone. For the best guidance on THC-dominant strains, consult with a local dispensary to see which products may be the best fit for you.
Is Sativa or Indica Better for Stomach Issues?
Both sativa- and indica-dominant cannabis strains are thought to contain the cannabinoids necessary to potentially benefit digestive wellness. The best solution for you may depend on what experience you prefer.
Sativa products, for instance, are typically appreciated by those who want to promote the uplifting, euphoric, and energizing effects of cannabis. But those looking to address anxious tummies might prefer indica products, as these are believed to promote relaxation and ease nausea.
Can Weed Trigger Stomach Issues?
Although there are many positive aspects of weed and stomach problems, using the substance might not always be beneficial. In some cases, cannabis can trigger responses that promote digestive discomfort.
For example, individuals who use the substance regularly over long periods may develop what’s known as cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome—a condition that can actually produce nausea and vomiting.
If I Have Stomach Issues, Should I Stop Smoking Cannabis?
If using cannabis leads to stomach problems or doesn’t relieve your symptoms, stop using the substance until you talk with a doctor. Your physician can evaluate your symptoms and cannabis use behaviors to see if marijuana is still a good treatment option or if there are other alternatives you may want to consider for your specific condition.
How To Purchase Marijuana
If weed seems like a good way to address your stomach problems, there are many easy ways to purchase cannabis products in your area.
Of course, the best solution will depend on where you’re purchasing weed. For example, if you want to buy marijuana product from a dispensary in Utah, you’ll need to obtain a medical marijuana card first, as the state only permits cannabis use for certain health conditions.
However, if you’re in a state that has legalized recreational cannabis use—such as California—you only need to visit a dispensary with a valid ID that proves you’re old enough to buy marijuana products.
Whatever dispensary you choose to visit, be sure to choose a provider that is known for having a wide selection and positive customer support. Cannabist Springville, for instance, offers an impressive line-up of cannabis products at competitive prices. Their educated staff can also provide assistance at choosing the best products for your specific needs—such as minimizing stomach issues.
Key Takeaways On Weed and Stomach Issues
- While research on weed and stomach issues is limited, cannabis products may be able to help provide relief for a variety of related conditions—such as nausea and IBD.
- Consuming cannabis products introduces THC and other cannabinoids to receptors throughout the body. This interaction is thought to trigger a variety of beneficial responses in the body—such as by minimizing inflammation that causes stomach pain.
- Smoking weed isn’t the only way to treat stomach problems with cannabis. Vaping and eating edibles can also work.
- When choosing a marijuana strain to ease digestive conditions, it may be more effective to use those that are THC-dominant.
Conclusion
Does weed help with stomach issues? It may, depending on the condition you’re experiencing. Before you turn to cannabis as treatment, always talk to a doctor first to get to the root of the problem and explore treatment options.
Once your medical provider has given you the green light, consult with a local dispensary to discover all the cannabis products that can help you. Whether you’re new to cannabis use or experienced with the substance, professional budtenders are a great resource for learning about the latest and greatest solutions for improving wellness with marijuana.
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