There has been a lot of debate over the years about the potential benefits and drawbacks of cannabis use, but one area where there is increasing evidence to support its use is in the treatment of asthma. Cannabis has been shown to have a positive effect on both the physical and emotional symptoms of asthma.
Before diving into the ways in which cannabis can help those with asthma, it’s important to understand a bit about the science behind it. Cannabis contains over 100 different compounds known as cannabinoids, with the two most well-known being THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). These cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating a wide range of bodily functions including pain, inflammation, and immune response.
When consumed, THC binds to CB1 receptors in the brain, which leads to a feeling of euphoria or “high”. However, it also has a bronchodilator effect, meaning it can help to open up the airways and improve breathing in those with asthma. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics found that THC was able to reduce airway inflammation and improve lung function in mice with allergic asthma.
CBD, on the other hand, does not produce the same psychoactive effects as THC but has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. In a study published in the European Journal of Pharmacology, researchers found that CBD was able to reduce airway inflammation and prevent airway hyperresponsiveness in guinea pigs with asthma.
Aside from its physical benefits, cannabis can also have a positive effect on the mood and emotional well-being of those with asthma. Living with a chronic condition like asthma can be stressful and anxiety-inducing, but cannabis has been shown to have anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects. This is thought to be due to the way in which cannabinoids interact with the brain’s serotonin receptors, which play a key role in regulating mood.
Of course, it’s important to note that cannabis is not a cure for asthma, and it should not be seen as a replacement for prescribed medications. However, for those with mild to moderate asthma, it can be a helpful addition to their treatment plan.
When it comes to consuming cannabis for asthma, there are a few things to keep in mind. Smoking cannabis is not recommended, as the smoke can be irritating to the lungs and may exacerbate asthma symptoms. Instead, it’s recommended to use a vaporizer or consume edibles, which are both less harmful to the lungs.
It’s also important to start with a low dose and work your way up slowly, as the effects of cannabis can vary from person to person. And as always, it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting any new treatment.
In conclusion, the positive relationship between cannabis and asthma is becoming increasingly clear. From its bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory effects to its ability to improve mood and reduce anxiety, cannabis can be a valuable addition to the treatment plan of those with asthma. While it may not be suitable for everyone, for those who are open to it and use it responsibly, cannabis can be a helpful tool in managing the symptoms of asthma and improving overall quality of life.
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References
https://www.ima.org.il/FilesUploadPublic/IMAJ/0/423/211583.pdf
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3006196/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2720277/
https://www.hindawi.com/journals/mi/2015/538670/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0014299918306836
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30481497/
