How cannabis can help to reduce inflammation depends on the kind of strain you use and the contents of its cannabinoid/terpene profile.
The main compound in cannabis that acts as an anti-inflammatory agent is CBD, and to a lesser extent THC. Other compounds that help to reduce inflammation are the terpenes Pinene, Caryophyllene, Myrcene and Humulene. On their own, these compounds work to combat inflammation in all parts of the body, but put together, in what is called the Entourage Effect, these compounds become even stronger and more efficient.
As cannabis legality has spread across the planet, its use has also begun to steadily increase as more and more people from all corners of the globe begin to understand the wonderful potential of the cannabis plant. With increased levels of scientific analysis now being conducted on cannabis, research has started to demonstrate the huge potential and anti-inflammatory effects of marijuana.
Inflammation is a natural response by the immune system. It helps to heal damaged tissue and fight foreign bodies – bacteria, viruses, or microorganisms that cause disease. Swelling near an injured muscle or fatigue experienced on catching a common cold virus are effects associated with inflammation, where the body is trying to protect itself.
However, if inflammation persists for a prolonged time, it may cause serious harm. This condition is termed as chronic inflammation and may occur due to the following reasons:
Chronic inflammation may lead to diseases like asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, cancer, and others. Over time, inflammatory disease severely lowers the quality of life and contributes to early ageing while it can also increase the risk of heart disease.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and aspirin are commonly used to treat chronic inflammation and relieve chronic pain. However, long-term use of such drugs increases the risk of stomach ulcers, kidney damage, and heart attacks.
Risks with opioids are fatal and well documented. In 2016, 40% of deaths due to opioids overdose involved prescription opioids in the U.S.
While NSAIDs and opioids are the primary anti-inflammatory medication in the modern world, consumption of cannabis and other natural herbs has been practised in many ancient cultures for thousands of years because of their anti-inflammatory properties.
There are detailed descriptions of cannabis use in texts of Ayurveda, a type of alternative medicine system from India documented over 2000 years ago. Similar stories of cannabis use are also found in Chinese culture.
Thankfully, modern science is finally beginning to catch up by considering the vast potential offered by medical cannabis. Preliminary research points to the potential treatment of inflammatory disease using medical marijuana without the harsh side effects that are typically associated with NSAID and opioids,
To produce the desired anti-inflammatory effects, selecting the right cannabis strain is essential. It all comes down to the composition of cannabinoids and terpene profiles in medical cannabis strains. More than 100 cannabinoids are present in cannabis, of which CBD and THC content is present in the highest quantity. Research suggests that among all cannabis components, CBD has the most potential to reduce inflammation.
Terpenes like pinene, caryophyllene, myrcene, and humulene have also been identified to reduce inflammation, but not to the extent of CBD. Nevertheless, the effect of terpenes on the human body is multiplied when it is consumed within cannabis.
It is now known that Cannabinoids and terpenes work together to produce stronger results, a phenomenon that is known as the “entourage effect.”
Scientists also believe that cannabis directly engages the immune system to combat inflammation. But how?
THC and CBD activate the so-called cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, part of the immune system that affects physiological functions such as appetite, pain, mood, perception, and memory.
Our body produces chemicals similar to THC and CBD, responsible for activating CB1 and CB2 receptors to regulate various physiological functions. However, in cases of chronic inflammation, the body does not produce enough of these chemicals.
This is where THC and CBD can work their magic.
These major cannabis components can activate the CB1 and CB2 receptors triggering a chain chemical reaction in our body, which helps to calm and reduce inflammation.
With this knowledge, the number of studies published about the impact of CBD and THC for chronic inflammation continues to rise. Cannabis users have also reported beneficial effects of CBD on joint Inflammation, Crohn’s disease, and a litany of other conditions.
Many cannabis strains may also help to reduce feelings of stress. Stress is known to be one of the biggest causes of inflammation.
If you ́re considering using cannabis for inflammation or you want to try some cannabis strains for pain. Here are some of our favourite cannabis strains for inflammation.
As the name suggests, this CBD rich sativa strain has stress-reducing effects but is also used to treat pain, inflammation, and anxiety.
With a 1:1 ratio of THC and CBD (around 10% for both), this medicinal strain could be particularly effective in helping to treat inflammation.
Its terpene profile includes myrcene, caryophyllene and limonene which gives this strains its bold citrus flavour with subtle spicy notes.
Due to its balanced CBD to THC ratio, Stress Killer CBD will help you to stay both focused and calm with far less of those sometimes undesirable psychoactive effects and is considered by many to be an ideal treatment for inflammation.
As the name suggests, Royal Medic is considered to be an ideal cannabis strain for medical conditions, including helping to relieve both pain and inflammation.
A wonderful combination of the CBD-rich Juanita Lagrimosa and high-yielding Critical, Royal Medic is considered to be one of the best medical cannabis strains with similar levels of both THC and CBD. This balanced cannabinoid profile (10% THC/10% CBD ) makes this strain a potentially effective treatment for both pain and inflammation.
Royal Medic has a delicious, fruity and hazy aroma with mellow earthy notes that are revealed in its smooth delivery. Best suited for medical users, this sativa dominant medical powerhouse has soothing and pain-relieving effects that allows users to remain focussed and active throughout the day.
Northern Light is a classic, world-famous indica strain which is known for its ability to relax both body and mind.
This popular and pure indica descendant of indigenous Afghani and Thai landrace strains has given rise to top hybrids like Shiva Skunk and Super Silver Haze.
Easily one of the most famous strains of all time, Northern light comes with a THC content at a moderate 14%: This pure indica has achieved much of its popularity thanks to its resinous buds, fast flowering ability, and resilience during the growing period.
Northern Lights terpene profile includes caryophyllene, myrcene, and humulene which help to amplify the anti-inflammatory qualities of the strain and provide it with a sweet-spicy aroma similar to a chicory barbeque.
A California original, GSC or Girl Scout Cookies is an OG Kush and Durban Poison hybrid cross that has gained worldwide popularity because of its strong and long-lasting effects, resinous buds and durability when growing.
This indica dominant hybrid, highTHC strain (around 20% or more ), will take you on a euphoric journey of full-body relaxation that can also help to relieve pain. A potent favourite of both recreational and medical users, GSC offers sedative qualities that are said to be effective in treating chronic pain, inflammation, muscle tension, and cramps.
Terpenes like caryophyllene, limonene, and humulene are found in GSC and help to create this strains medicinal value as well as its exquisite aroma and taste. The sweet and earthy flavour of GSC might even remind you of chocolate fudge cookies.
Other recommended strains worth considering for inflammation are ACDC and Painkiller XL CBD – These high in CBD strains are thought to be particularly useful in treating both pain and inflammation.
Clinical trials and further research on the complete role of medical marijuana and its ability to combat inflammation is, of course, necessary. Still, given what we already know, there seems to be a real benefit in considering the potential of cannabis for reducing the symptoms of inflammation.
If you want to learn more about the effects of medical marijuana, or you´re thinking about using marijuana for pain relief or inflammation, make sure to visit our webshop where we offer a vast collection of world-famous strains including more CBD strains and strains for pain relief as well as classics like Jack Herer, Amnesia Haze and Blueberry Kush.
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