The Best Cannabis Strains for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Medical marijuana, specifically the cannabinoids found in marijuana, such as cannabidiol (CBD), has shown promise in providing relief for some symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, it’s important to note that the use of medical marijuana for rheumatoid arthritis should be discussed with a healthcare professional, and its effectiveness can vary from person to person. In general, medical marijuana is thought to benefit rheumatoid arthritis patients in three main ways:
Pain Relief
Both tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and CBD have demonstrated analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. They can help alleviate the chronic pain associated with RA.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Cannabinoids, particularly CBD, have anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial in reducing the inflammation that causes joint damage in RA.
Reduced Muscle Spasms
Marijuana can help relax muscles and reduce muscle spasms, which can be especially beneficial for individuals with RA who experience muscle stiffness and pain.
Medical Cannabis for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive phytocannabinoid derived from cannabis sativa, has exhibited anti-inflammatory properties in various inflammatory conditions, including arthritis. Despite this, CBD’s mechanism of action has remained somewhat enigmatic due to its interactions with multiple receptors and enzymes. A 2020 study shed some light on CBD’s effects, revealing that it elevates intracellular calcium levels, diminishes cell viability, and curtails the production of the inflammatory factors IL-6, IL-8, and MMP-3 in rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts (RASF) [1].
Overall, the 2020 study suggested that CBD preferentially targets activated, pro-inflammatory RASF and concluded that CBD possesses anti-arthritic activity and might ameliorate arthritis via targeting synovial fibroblasts under inflammatory conditions [1]. However, a 2022 review cautions that evidence is very uncertain about the effect of cannabis on rheumatoid arthritis [2]. They note that cannabis and cannabinoid products may slightly reduce disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis but do not always help with pain reduction.
Best Strains for Rheumatoid Arthritis
It’s important to approach medical marijuana with caution and guidance from a healthcare professional. Different strains and methods of consumption may have varying effects, and individual responses can differ significantly. Medical marijuana is typically just one aspect of a comprehensive treatment plan for rheumatoid arthritis, which may also include medications, physical therapy, and other interventions.
With that in mind, and the consideration of current research, medical marijuana patients with RA will likely want to try high CBD cannabis strains before utilizing THC varieties. These high CBD strains are also called hemp flower because they are non-psychoactive and have very low THC content. In addition to hemp flower with less than 0.3% THC, there are also marijuana varieties (more than 0.3% THC) that are high in CBD and less psychoactive which can provide great benefits.
For new users, be aware that these are not the same as a “50/50” hybrid. That term means that indica and sativa genetics are balanced and do not imply an equal cannabinoid content. An equal cannabinoid content is communicated as a “1:1 THC to CBD ratio.” This 1:1 ratio is also found in the prescription cannabinoid drug Sativex [3]. Sativex (nabiximols) has demonstrated significant improvement in clinical cases of rheumatoid arthritis and may be an option your doctor recommends over medical cannabis.
Learn more here! www.dubermedical.com/best-cannabis-strains-for-rheumatoid-arthritis/
13 ноя 2023
