Does CBD help with irritable bowel syndrome?

INTERACTION BETWEEN THE GUT MICROBIOME AND THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM

Beforehand, it should be stated that the microbiota is an ecological community of microorganisms located in any multicellular organism. This community consists of bacteria, fungi, viruses, protists, etc. According to studies conducted by experts in 2009, it should be noted that the ability of the central nervous system to influence the microbiota is enormous. The same applies to the influence of the microbiota on the brain and behavior. Specifically, in the gastrointestinal tract, the microbiota influences the host. This ensures the maintenance of the normal immune function of the mucosa. The same is true for the function of the normal unit of the epithelial barrier integrity and mobility as well as the absorption of nutrients. The failure of this action can eventually alter gastrointestinal function. This may subsequently lead to a propensity for disease. According to studies carried out by professionals, it should be noted that stress or age can lead to changes in the composition of the microbiota. This would subsequently lead to a huge vulnerability to inflammatory stimuli in the gastrointestinal tract. Although irritable bowel syndrome is a microbial problem, the unambiguous link between microbes and the endocannabinoid system has not been identified. Today, only cannabis represents one of the best options available for the management of this disease.

From preclinical studies conducted in 2007, it should be noted that oral administration of a specific strain of lactobacillus induced the expression of opioid and cannabinoid receptors in intestinal cells. The latter ingested analgesic functions in the intestine. These are precisely those similar to the effects of morphine on pain.

THE USE OF CANNABIS FOR THE TREATMENT OF IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME SYMPTOMS

Truly, there is still no solid evidence today that links cannabis to irritable bowel syndrome. However, there are ways in which cannabis can be used as an adjunct or even as a treatment. Because CBD significantly improves the quality of life for people with this condition. Here's how cannabis can indeed provide tremendous relief from the three main symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome:

• Diarrhea: in individuals who suffer from diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome, CBD has already proven its ability to provide crucial help in reducing hypermotility. Similarly, it facilitates the reduction of abdominal cramps. Indeed, hypermotility is generally observed when food passes quickly through the digestive tract. As for CBD, it was the first treatment that was used against diarrhea caused by cholera in the 19^th century;
• Pain: the analgesic property that CBD possesses is considered a benefit for patients who are suffering from irritable bowel syndrome. Because it significantly reduces visceral sensitivity in all people who suffer from gastrointestinal disorders. In 2004, studies showed the effectiveness of cannabinoids against intestinal diseases. Similarly, CBD has the ability to provide tremendous relief from nerve pain, as it has consistent anti-inflammatory properties. In other words, the cannabinoid has the ability to calm the sensitivity and inflammation of the intestinal mucosa to the maximum extent;
• Depression: The mental symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome are definitely not to be overlooked. Based on studies conducted on rodents in 2016, it should be noted that cannabidiol can be considered a non-psychoactive component of cannabis itself. A single dose of the latter mitigates antisocial behavior to the maximum extent and with effectiveness. Likewise, it reduces anxiety-provoking behaviors within minutes. Hence its reputation against antidepressant properties.

WHAT IS THE IMPORTANCE OF THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM IN GASTROINTESTINAL FUNCTION?

The endocannabinoid system has great importance in gastrointestinal function. This importance is due to the fact that 2-Arachidonoylglycerol has been isolated. By closely studying the role of vanilloid mechanisms, scientists have pointed out that anandamide is an endogenous agonist of VR1 receptors. In addition, from the studies conducted by Pertwee, it should be noted that the enteric nervous system of all mammals expresses the CB1 receptor. Stimulation of this receptor will cause a decrease in gastrointestinal motility. In other words, this will be done by inhibiting the release of contractile neurotransmitters.

Similarly, this company has also demonstrated that chronic intestinal inflammation can indeed lead to sensitization and upregulation of cannabinoid receptors. Indeed, CBD would have a negligible effect on intestinal motility per se. However, it will have synergistic motility worthy of the name with THC. Likewise, it will provide crucial help in enhancing the regulatory effect.

Although, to date, its studies have not been conducted, there is a lot of evidence explaining that cannabis has a long history in the treatment of cholera, related disorders, intestinal colic. Based on all these claims, it must be suggested that endocannabinoids may represent the most promising therapeutic neuromodulatory target available. This is accompanied by phytocannabinoid treatments that would represent a much more effective therapeutic approach to date.

WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF CBD ON THE BODY?

CBD is used today due to its therapeutic properties, such as chronic pain relief. Apart from anti-inflammatory properties, it also fights anxiety and depression.

IS CBD LEGAL?

Of course, CBD is legal in all regions of France. However, there are certain standards that must be met so that it does not cause side effects on the body.