While an Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) diet and stress reduction can help alleviate IBS symptoms, some people may wish to try other options, particularly during flare-ups of pain.
Doctors sometimes prescribe medications for irritable bowel syndrome, but some only target specific symptoms and can have unwanted side effects. If you're looking for something natural that could help you fight IBS, you may be interested in CBD.
Since cannabinoid receptors are present throughout the body, including the stomach, it's possible that ingesting cannabis-derived products such as cannabidiol can relieve digestive symptoms.
Studies have shown that cannabinoids have anti-inflammatory qualities, which could make them effective in treating gastrointestinal disorders such as IBS. However, studies of 2011 and 2012 on cannabinoids and irritable bowel syndrome looked specifically at the effect of dronabinol, a synthetic cannabis product containing mainly THC.
A magazine from 2020 suggests that CBD may also have potential therapeutic benefits for conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome. However, further research is needed to confirm this link. At present, there is not enough evidence to firmly state that CBD can help IBS.
Which type of CBD is best for SCI?
There is no specific research on which type of CBD is best for IBS. That said, research suggests that taking THC and CBD together may be more effective than taking either separately - this is known as the’entourage effect.
For this reason, full-spectrum CBD products may be more effective at relieving symptoms than broad-spectrum CBD or CBD isolate.
As for the type of product, topical products are not particularly useful for relieving IBS symptoms. Ingesting edible foods, such as candies and oils, is a better choice.
How to find a quality CBD product
When buying CBD, whether for IBS or another problem, consider the following:
The source of CBD
Buy from a company that is open and honest about the origin of its hemp, like Cebedia 🙂
Third-party testing
A quality product must be accompanied by an up-to-date, detailed certificate of analysis issued by a reputable third-party laboratory.
The certificate of analysis lets you know whether the product's power really corresponds to what's stated on the label. So you can be sure that the product has been tested for potentially hazardous substances such as heavy metals and mold.
Type of CBD
The products Full-spectrum CBD are considered more effective than other types, but contain small amounts of THC (no more than 0.3 %).
If you prefer to avoid THC, opt for a CBD isolate or broad-spectrum CBD product. But remember that any CBD product may contain traces of THC.
Power
Dosage varies greatly from one CBD product to another, so always check the label to find out more about potency. Higher potency may be the reason for a higher price - but not always.
What dosage should you use?
CBD dosage is different for everyone. Don't assume that what worked for one friend will solve your problems. You may need a higher or lower dose.
If you're just starting out, use caution and start with the smallest dose. Bear in mind that when ingesting CBD capsules, The effects may take a few hours to appear. Do not resume use until two hours have elapsed.
If you need help figuring out how to dose CBD, check out our guide to CBD dosage.
Safety and side effects
CBD won't get you high and is generally considered quite safe. However, it is possible that you may experience some side effects, such as :
- fatigue
- changes in weight or appetite
- diarrhea
As CBD can cause diarrhea in some people, it may aggravate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
The risk or severity of side effects may increase if you take CBD with a high-fat meal.
Another thing to bear in mind is that the CBD may interact with certain medications. Be sure to talk to your doctor before trying CBD. This can help you avoid unpleasant side effects or drug interactions.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, do not take CBD.
Frequently asked questions about CBD for irritable bowel syndrome
Is CBD good for IBS?
It's possible that CBD's anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce IBS symptoms, but there's no guarantee it will work for you. At present, research into whether CBD can help relieve IBS symptoms is limited.
Can CBD aggravate irritable bowel syndrome?
It's often thought that CBD consumption can increase diarrhea. However, current Trust Source studies suggest that CBD consumption may actually decrease intestinal motility - the movement of the digestive system - in people with IBS.
To remember
A growing body of research suggests that CBD consumption may have health benefits, including anxiety and pain relief. However, it remains unclear whether CBD can help relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
Until we know for sure whether CBD can help IBS, there's probably no harm in trying it. Just be sure to talk to your doctor before trying it. Some people may experience IBS-like symptoms, such as diarrhea, when taking CBD.
Sources and scientific studies are cited and linked in the content of the above article.
- Irritable bowel syndrome