20/02/2023
Digestive Inflammation
Digestive inflammation, such as what is found in ulcerative colitis and Crohnβs disease, can be directly influenced by cannabis use and endocannabinoids. Neutrophils, one of the main types of white blood cells found in the body, are responsible for intestinal inflammation in autoimmune issues that affect the digestive tract. The transporter P-glycoprotein is responsible for decreasing the inflammatory responses of neutrophils and is modulated by the CB2 receptors of the endocannabinoid system.
Cannabis contains more than 500 naturally occurring compounds, including almost 150 different cannabinoid, the main ones being CBD and THC these targets the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the human body.
The main cannabinoid receptors involved in potentially managing ulcerative colitis symptoms are the CB1 and CB2 receptors. These are believed to help create the brain-gut connection.
CB1 receptors affect the brain and can help relieve the psychological components of pain .
They can be influenced by cannabis to help calm nausea and vomiting, slow intestinal emptying, increase appetite, and reduce pain and intestinal secretions.
CB2 receptors affect immune cells and gastrointestinal epithelial cells (intestinal surface cells), but the extent of their role is still unclear. Cannabinoids affect them and can help improve the symptoms associated with the condition, such as reduced chronic pain, and diarrhea, and improved quality of life for IBD patients.
Note: LAKI does not intend to give this as professional medical advice. Do not attempt to self-diagnose or prescribe treatment based on the information provided on this page. Always consult a physician before making any decision on the treatment of a medical condition. LAKI can be found on the Medical Directory. Your doctor can recommend our products to you.