It has been established for centuries that marijuana has a lot of health benefits apart from its notorious reputation.
Cannabis contains over 70 active substances called cannabinoids. These cannabinoids act on our body’s natural endocannabinoid system and help regulate our immune system.
Rick Simpson Oil And Its Benefits
Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) is an oil extracted by cold pressing the cannabis plant. It contains the active compound delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol or THC. It can alleviate mental symptoms such as nausea, sleep disturbances, and appetite.
It was first created by Rick Simpson, an advocate of medical Cannabis. He had skin cancer, and RSO helped him become cancer-free.
Ever since, RSO has been used by people suffering from various conditions worldwide. It has helped treat various medical conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia, and even cancer.
But Can RSO Treat Inflammatory Bowel Disease?
The answer to the above question is: Yes, it can. Many studies have been conducted over the past years regarding the benefits of RSO on various body systems, and the results have been quite promising.
Research conducted at The University Of Massachusetts Medical School And The University Of Bath unfolded that there are certain chemicals in Cannabis that help regulate gut inflammation.
They established that it might help treat gut inflammation disorders like IBD, a painful chronic disease.
What Is Inflammatory Bowel Disease?
Inflammatory Bowel Disease or IBD is a medical condition that occurs due to gut inflammation. It has two types: Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis.
According to The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, almost 2 million Americans are affected by IBD. Most cases are diagnosed before the age of 30. According to The Centres For Disease Control And Prevention (CDC), inflammatory bowel disease is an immune disorder, and the exact causes are unknown.
The symptoms of IBD mainly include:
- abdominal pain and discomfort
- persistent diarrhea
- weight loss
- bloody stools
- fatigue and other symptoms of inflammation
RSO As A Treatment Option
IBD is a debilitating disease that causes many to suffer. The conventional medication for IBD includes steroids and antibiotics. About 60% of chronic IBD may require surgical treatment.
Although Rick Simpson oil is not a definitive cure for IBD, it surely aids in treating the symptoms that many have to suffer. More and more people are resorting to Cannabis products to treat IBD as an alternative and complementary medicine.
Effects Of RSO On The Gut
RSO contains cannabinoids that act on the receptors in the Endocannabinoid system.
Following are the effects that it produces on the gut:
- Relaxation of the esophageal sphincter
- Reduction of visceral pain
- Decrease in gastric motility
- Decrease in gastric secretions
- Decrease in bowel motility
- Decrease in bowel secretions
All these effects of RSO add up and help alleviate the symptoms of IBD.
According to Jami Kinnucan, M.D, “Several studies have been conducted in patients with both Crohn’s disease and ulcerative Colitis and have shown a positive impact of Cannabis on clinical symptoms in a small number of patients. However, there are a few studies that have shown no real change in symptoms.”
Several studies have depicted a positive impact of Cannabis on the clinical symptoms of patients suffering from IBD. These include a reduction in abdominal pain and discomfort, diarrhea, and mucus.
Apart from these GI-related symptoms, RSO also helped reduce inflammation and chronic pain associated with Inflammatory Bowel Disease. It is also especially helpful in improving appetite and quality of sleep.
However, some patients experienced no real change in any stated symptoms.
These diverse clinical effects are most likely due to studies using different types of Cannabis oil, such as RSO and CBD, and in different formulations.
Side Effects Of RSO
It is important to remember that RSO can cause some potential side effects, including nausea, vomiting, behavior changes, and worsening of mood.
RSO is also not recommended for pregnant women and lactating mothers.
RSO Dosage
As RSO is a very potent product, it is recommended to be used as the first dose in a very minute amount. The dosage is increased gradually. This method’s goal is to increase the consumption to 60 grams of RSO gradually. This is achieved over three months.
Key Takeaways About RSO And IBD
Many patients have benefited from using RSO as a complementary therapy adjunct to their regular medical treatment. They have successfully managed their IBD related and improvement in overall health.
It is essential to keep in mind that no studies have shown that RSO can replace the conventional therapy used for IBD.
Always discuss with your health care provider before adding RSO to your ongoing medical regimen.