Cannabis is a powerful treatment for nausea. A study found that 96% of participants who consumed cannabis products experienced nausea relief.
Specifically, CBD oil and broad-spectrum cannabis products can quell nausea within an hour of ingestion. This is faster than the time it takes for prescription anti-nausea medications to take effect.
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Cannabinoids
The cannabinoids in cannabis activate the body’s endocannabinoid system. These receptors in your brain suppress nausea sensations, stimulate your appetite, and have several other therapeutic properties. Specifically, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) have antiemetic effects.
They both interact with the receptors in your medulla oblongata that control the vomiting reflex, so they help prevent you from vomiting or feeling the need to vomit. Some patients are curious as to whether will cannabis help with nausea caused by chemotherapy.
Chemotherapy treatments can cause many side effects, including nausea. The chemotherapy medications kill cancer cells and other types of rapidly dividing cells in the body. These side effects are a natural part of the treatment process, and your body’s normal defense mechanism triggers sensations of nausea and an impulse to vomit.
This condition is called cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS). It is most often seen in heavy marijuana users and occurs when your endocannabinoid system becomes overstimulated. Your healthcare provider can diagnose this condition by asking you questions and doing a physical exam, including an examination of your stomach. They may also order a blood test to check your sodium levels.
THC
Cannabis is a psychoactive plant, and when consumed, it activates your body’s endocannabinoid system. This system regulates your body by activating CB1 and CB2 receptors, which increase and decrease the presence of neurotransmitters that affect a wide range of symptoms, including nausea.
Vomiting is a natural sensation that helps your body eliminate toxins that may have been ingested, gone bad, or are something you’re intolerant to (like dairy for someone lactose intolerant). Most people who suffer from nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy find relief through the use of medical marijuana.
However, it is important to understand that not all cannabis products are created equal. Choosing a cannabis product with high levels of THC is essential to getting immediate symptom relief. This is because the endocannabinoid system takes time to react, so cannabis products that take longer to work are less effective for nausea relief.
CBD
CBD has antiemetic properties and is effective in reducing nausea. It interacts with receptors that bind to serotonin to reduce nausea and vomiting. It can be used for chemotherapy patients or anyone suffering from a chronic condition that causes nausea, like inflammatory bowel disease.
CBD can be taken as a capsule or vaped. New Phase Blends recommends capsules since it is the safest way to consume CBD for nausea. CBD capsules are tasteless and allow the medication to be absorbed into your system quickly, providing immediate relief. Vaping allows for the quick absorption of CBD as well. However, it is important to consult your medical professional before consuming any cannabis product.
If you’re interested in trying cannabis for nausea, make sure to consult your physician first. They’ll be able to guide how much CBD you should take for your symptoms. They’ll also be able to recommend the best type of cannabis for your specific needs.
Indica
Most cannabis consumers are familiar with the terms indica and sativa. However, the meaning behind these classifications is misunderstood by many. Indica strains are sedating and pair well with relaxing activities such as watching a movie, while sativas have uplifting cerebral effects ideal for social gatherings and creative pursuits.
Hybrid strains are typically a good choice for patients suffering from various ailments, as they offer the best of both worlds. The terpenes, THC, and CBD in a cannabis plant determine its effects. Moreover, your genetics and metabolism affect how you experience a particular strain. For instance, a strain with high myrcene content may smell musty and earthy, while a higher limonene content can produce a sweet and fruity aroma.
For people who suffer from nausea, Indica strains are an excellent option. They have a calming effect and can reduce pain and inflammation. However, indices can also cause drowsiness and affect your appetite. In this case, it is essential to choose a strain with low THC and high CBD.
Sativa
Emotional distress, gastrointestinal disorders, motion sickness, and more can cause nausea. Finding the right strain can help you find relief from nausea. When selecting the perfect strain, it’s crucial to consider terpenes and how the product will be consumed. For example, indices have musty and earthy odors, while sativas are fruity or spicy.
In addition to reducing nausea, sativa can stimulate the appetite and increase energy levels. This makes it a great option for patients with gastrointestinal conditions. It can even help improve nutrient intake for HIV/AIDS patients with cachexia or wasting syndrome. Cannabis activates CB1 receptors, triggering the release of endocannabinoids that inhibit the release of the nausea-causing serotonin.
The endocannabinoid system regulates many aspects of our bodies and health, including mood, pain sensation, memory, immunity, and stress. Medicinal marijuana has been shown to work as well as or better than FDA-approved antiemetic drugs, such as dronabinol and nabilone, which are prescribed for chemotherapy-related nausea.