• Inflammatory pain results from tissue damage or inflammation, leading to swelling, redness, and discomfort.
• Role of Cannabinoids: CBD has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties and may help alleviate inflammatory pain by reducing inflammation and immune response. Additionally, cannabinoids like THC may modulate immune function and suppress inflammatory signaling pathways.

Medical Cannabis helps soothe Inflammation

Medical cannabis not only helps relieve pain but also has other significant benefits in palliative care, particularly in patients with cancer-related pain. Cannabinoids, active compounds in cannabis, have been found to have analgesic (pain-relieving) properties that can help alleviate a range of pain-related conditions.

How Does Medical Cannabis Help Vis-a-Vis Inflammation?

Medical cannabis has been found to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help in the treatment of inflammation-related conditions. Cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are the two primary cannabinoids in cannabis that have been studied for their anti-inflammatory properties. CBD has been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the production of inflammatory cytokines and promoting the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Additionally, CBD has been shown to reduce the activation of immune cells called T-cells, which play a key role in the inflammatory response. THC also has anti-inflammatory effects, although these effects are less well-understood. Some studies suggest that THC works by binding to cannabinoid receptors in the immune system and modulating the inflammatory response. Inflammation is associated with a wide range of conditions, including autoimmune disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and chronic pain. Medical cannabis may be beneficial in the treatment of these conditions by reducing inflammation and thereby alleviating symptoms.

What Studies Exist to Support the Use of Cannabis for Inflammation?

There is growing scientific evidence supporting the use of CBD (cannabidiol) for inflammation, and several studies have been conducted on this topic. A study titled ‘Transdermal cannabidiol reduces inflammation and pain-related behaviors in a rat model of arthritis’ published in the European Journal of Pain in 2016 found that topical application of CBD reduced pain and inflammation in rats with arthritis. The researchers suggested that the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of CBD could be useful in the treatment of arthritis in humans. The transdermal absorption of CBD was measured to determine plasma concentration and demonstrated linearity with doses ranging from 0.6-6.2 mg/day. The use of transdermal CBD gel showed a dose-dependent reduction in joint swelling, spontaneous pain as assessed by limb posture scores, immune cell infiltration, and synovial membrane thickening. Pain withdrawal latency (PWL) returned to baseline levels. Immunohistochemical analysis of biomarkers for inflammation (CGRP, OX42) in the spinal cord and TNFα in the dorsal root ganglia showed a dose-dependent reduction. The study determined that effective doses of CBD were 6.2 and 62 mg/day, with no significant effects observed on exploratory behaviour, indicating a limited impact on higher brain function.

Another 2020 study published in the Journal of Pain Research examined the effects of CBD on chronic pain and inflammation in humans with multiple sclerosis. The study found that CBD significantly reduced pain and inflammation in the study participants. Overall, studies suggest that CBD has promising anti-inflammatory effects that may be beneficial in the treatment of various inflammatory conditions. However, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms underlying these effects and to determine optimal dosing and administration protocols. Patients need to consult with their healthcare providers before using CBD for inflammation or any other medical condition.

Does cannabis for inflammation have side effects?

The side effects of using medical cannabis for pain, palliative, and cancer care can vary depending on the individual, the method of use, the dosage, and the type of cannabis used. It can range from Psychotropic effects like euphoria, drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion to cognitive ones including issues related to memory, attention, and reaction time. Besides, smoking or inhaling cannabis can cause respiratory irritation, coughing, and bronchitis. This can be a concern for patients with preexisting lung conditions. Cannabis can also cause changes in heart rate and blood pressure, which can be problematic for patients with cardiovascular disease and gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Key takeaways

• Medical cannabis has anti-inflammatory effects, which can help in the treatment of inflammation-related conditions.

• Cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are the two primary cannabinoids in cannabis that have been studied for their anti-inflammatory properties.

• Studies suggest that CBD has potent anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the production of inflammatory cytokines, reducing the activation of immune cells called T-cells, and promoting the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines.

• Side effects of using medical cannabis for inflammation or other conditions can vary, including psychotropic effects, cognitive issues, respiratory irritation, changes in heart rate and blood pressure, and gastrointestinal discomfort

Please Note: It's important to note that more research is needed to fully understand how medical cannabis can be used to treat inflammation and associated conditions. Additionally, patients need to consult with their healthcare providers and carefully monitor their symptoms if they choose to use medical cannabis for these purposes.