Cannabis can help to reduce muscle spasms because of the way its cannabinoids and some of its terpenes work on the cannabinoid receptors (CB-1 and CB-2) in the brain as well as their muscle relaxing effect. Primarily THC, CBD and CBG seem to act on the CB-1 and CB-2 receptors that reside in the area of the brain (Motor Cortex or M1) which controls the body’s motor functions. Even though the exact workings of this mechanism are not yet clear, research has shown that THC can reduce muscle spasms in patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and spinal cord injury. The terpene myrcene helps THC in this action through the Entourage Effect. Likewise, CBD and CBG have shown to be helpful to relax muscles as well as being effective against MS and epileptic spasms.
Muscle spasms, or spasticity, are a fairly common ailment across the world. They occur when muscles contract involuntarily and are unable to relax. Spasms can affect any muscle and are caused by several issues including dehydration, fatigue, insufficient stretching, exercising in hot climates, electrolyte imbalances or disorders such as Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Even the minor foot cramps we have all experienced can be a painful and debilitating experience. Heavy-duty pharmaceuticals are often prescribed to treat spasticity – but what if there was a more natural solution?
Medical cannabis has become an increasingly popular alternative to traditional pharmaceutical medicine. It is a safe and natural medicine, with minimal side effects. In studies performed on patients with Multiple Sclerosis and spinal cord injuries, a majority of the patients reported that medical marijuana reduced muscle spasticity and pain.
While there appears to be a distinct correlation between using medical cannabis and improved health, what is the actual science behind cannabis and muscle spasms?
Medical marijuana can help to reduce muscle spasms thanks to the way its cannabinoids and some of its terpenes work on the CB-1 and CB-2 cannabinoid receptors in the brain. They also have a highly relaxing effect on muscles.
In particular, Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabigerol (CBG) seem to act on the CB-1 and CB-2 receptors that reside in the Motor Cortex – the area of the brain which controls the body’s motor functions. Even though the exact workings of this mechanism are not yet clear, research has indicated that medical cannabis can reduce painful muscle spasms in patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and spinal cord injury. The terpene myrcene helps THC in this action through the Entourage Effect. Likewise, CBD and CBG have shown to be helpful to relax muscles as well as being effective against MS and epileptic spasms.
Studies have shown that THC can also bind with CB-1 and CB-2 receptors of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) to deactivate inflammatory proteins. This anti-inflammatory response can help prevent muscle spasms. A 2013 study has also indicated that both THC and CBD act to reduce the phenotype responsible for inflammation in Multiple Sclerosis, and saves nerve fibres from damage – reducing spasticity.
Therefore, when thinking about strains for the treatment of muscle spasms – we would recommend those with higher concentrations of the cannabinoids THC, CBD and CBG, as well as the terpene myrcene.
There are several different ways in which medical cannabis can be used in both its treatment and application for muscle spasms. Medical marijuana can be smoked, vaporized, eaten or applied topically, depending on the nature of your muscle spasms as well as the type of strain you are using for the treatment.
A multitude of different strains of medical cannabis for muscle cramps is available in indica, hybrid and sativa strains. Each strain has unique characteristics. Sativa, for example, typically offers more invigorating strains, while indica offers more sedative effects and hybrids provide a more balanced experience that is influenced by that of the parent strains.
So, if you’re looking to treat muscle spasms, we have picked out three medical cannabis strains that are considered to be highly effective in the treatment of pain related to the condition.
Our first selection is the indica dominant hybrid, Afghan Kush. This legendary strain hails from the Hindu Kush mountain range near the Afghanistan-Pakistan border and has been used to make Charas and Black Hash for as long as there have been humans living in that area.
Famed for its stress-relieving qualities, this indica dominant choice contains a medium to high level of THC content (upwards of 20%) and helps to relax muscles and ease the symptoms of muscle spasms.
Terpenes found in this strain include myrcene, limonene and caryophyllene which are thought to be therapeutically useful in treating muscle spasms, as well as providing this strain with its distinctive citrusy, peppery flavour and aroma.
If you’re suffering from chronic pain or muscle spasms, this powerful Asian plant could provide you with the therapeutic solution you’ve been craving.
One of the most celebrated cannabis strains in history, Northern Lights fame is not without justification. This potent indica strain is known for its ability to relieve pain and provide total relaxation that can help with the treatment of muscle spasms.
With its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, Northern Lights is considered by many to be one of the most soothing medicinal cannabis strains on the market today with many people claiming to have found relief in using it as a treatment for several conditions including muscle spasms.
A descendant of indigenous Afghani and Thai landrace strains, Northern Lights is the parent of famed hybrids including Shiva Skunk and Super Silver Haze, and with THC levels approaching 20%, Northern Lights continues to allure the cannabis connoisseur for both its recreational and medical value.
This Pungently sweet yet somewhat spicy plants terpene profile includes limonene and myrcene which give this strains its citrus, piney flavour and aroma.
It is recommended that Northern Lights should be used in the evening as it is one of the purest indica strains on the market today, which also makes it a particularly sedative strain.
A Sativa dominant hybrid, with high levels of THC, Blue Dream is thought to be one of the best options for reducing pain and treating muscle spasms. This high in THC strain (approaching 20%) is thought to be particularly useful as a treatment for joint pain as well as muscle spams. Blue Dream ́s terpene profile shows high levels of pinene, caryophyllene and myrcene, all of which are thought capable of reducing pain and inflammation.
A cross of Blueberry with Haze, Blue Dream achieves full-body relaxation with some subtle cerebral stimulation. With a sweet berry aroma similar to that of its Blueberry parent, Blue Dream can help to relieve pain and provide relief without any heavy sedative effects. As such, Blue Dream is a popular daytime medicine and could be the perfect strain for those suffering from muscle spasms.
If you suffer from muscle spasms or muscle cramps, these strains could be highly effective in treating the symptoms of muscle spasms without the related side-effects of prescribed medicines.
If you want to try cannabis for pain relief or you want to learn more about our extensive range of cannabis strains, please visit our growing community and webshop. Our vast selection includes hugely popular strains like Jack Herer, White Widow, Cream Caramel, OG Kush, Green Crack, Northern Lights and Pineapple Express.
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