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Gastritis is a common condition that affects the lining of the stomach. And sometimes traditional treatments just aren’t enough. And that’s where medical cannabis comes in.
Since 2018, medical cannabis has been legally available on prescription through licensed clinics like Alternaleaf for 50+ conditions. You can find out if you’re eligible by completing the quick eligibility checker on our website.
With its potential anti-inflammatory, anti-nausea, and gut-calming properties, medical cannabis is gaining interest as a supportive therapy for digestive conditions like gastritis. In this article, we’ll explore the link between the endocannabinoid system and digestion, the potential benefits of medical cannabis and gut health, and what the research says.
What Is Gastritis and What Causes It?
Gastritis is when your stomach lining becomes irritated or inflamed. This can occur suddenly (acute gastritis) or develop gradually over time (chronic gastritis). Essentially the stomach lining becomes weakened or damaged, allowing stomach acid to irritate the tissue underneath.
Symptoms can include:
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Bloating
- Indigestion
Common causes include infection with a bacteria called helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), long-term use of NSAIDs (like ibuprofen), drinking too much alcohol, stress, or autoimmune conditions. And treatment can depend on the cause. If it’s left untreated, it may increase the risk of ulcers or more serious gastrointestinal issues.
Common treatments can range from antibiotics, to medicines that control stomach acid such as antacids. You can also talk to your doctor about stopping anti-inflammatory painkillers like ibuprofen. It may help to stop drinking alcohol, reduce the amount of caffeine you’re drinking, or try sleeping with an extra pillow.
If your gastritis is caused by an underlying health condition - for example a problem with your immune system where it attacks the lining of your stomach - you may want to find treatment that targets this. And that’s where medical cannabis comes in. And an alternative treatment option could be medical cannabis. Did you know for some people there might be some potential benefits of medical cannabis for gastritis? We’ll be exploring this more below.
How the Endocannabinoid System Affects Digestive Inflammation
Let’s start with a bit of background information. The endocannabinoid system, or the ECS, is a messenger and receptor system that plays a big role in homeostasis (the management of balance) within the human body. Research suggests that the ECS influences and modulates mood, appetite, sleep, pain, and much more.
One of the core components of the ECS are the cannabinoid receptors, which includes CB1 and CB2. They’re one of the main reasons behind why cannabis can work positively on a wide range of conditions, including regulating gut health. For example this study shows how CB1 and CB2 significantly reduced inflammation, diarrhea, and epithelial damage in mouse models of chemically induced colitis. This shows both receptors can potentially play a protective, anti-inflammatory role in the gut.
Many experts believe that, by consuming compounds like CBD and THC, it’s possible to interact with these receptors in the body and the gastric processes.
Can Medical Cannabis Help Manage Gastritis Symptoms?
Tetrahydrocannabinolis (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are two of over 100 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. They’re active compounds that can cause effects throughout the body, and you’ll see them often when researching medical cannabis. The main difference is that THC can produce a ‘high’, while CBD doesn’t. And remember, whilst there is evidence to give a general idea of how both THC and CBD may react with the body, they can affect every individual differently.
Medical cannabis and gut health go hand in hand as seen in this study.
THC and CBD may reduce or regulate nausea by interacting with the brain and gut receptors responsible for vomiting and digestive discomfort.
THC and gastric pain: THC was shown to reduce gastric inflammation which also helps reduce cramping and gut overactivity.
THC and nausea: This study shows how THC has the potential to ease the symptoms of nausea by interacting with the CB1 receptors.
CBD for stomach inflammation: CBD also has the potential to relieve pain by reducing inflammation when it indirectly interacts with the CB2 receptors.
What Type of Cannabis Products May Be Helpful for Gastritis?
Below we’ve got a brief explanation of the different ways you can consume medical cannabis:
- Inhaling: This method of consumption provides rapid onset of effects, typically within minutes, making it suitable for immediate relief of symptoms such as pain. However, remember that smoking your prescription is illegal in the UK and could lead to lung damage. So, if your preferred method is inhalation, purchasing a dry herb vaporiser through a licensed clinic like Alternaleaf is the best solution.
- Cannabis Edibles & Capsules: Consuming cannabis-infused ‘edibles’, like pastilles, or soft gel capsules, results in slower onset of effects, which can take between 1 to 2 hours. Edibles are a convenient option for mild inflammation because some people find that they provide longer and more pronounced relief.
- CBD & THC Oils/Tinctures: Placing cannabis oil or tincture under the tongue provides a faster onset than edibles, usually within 15 to 30 minutes, and, like edible options, relief tends to last.
- Cannabis Topicals (Creams, Balms, Patches): Applying cannabis-infused products directly to the skin targets localised pain and inflammation. Please note, you should only ever apply a medication topically if it has been advised by your doctor. The majority of medical cannabis products available for prescription are for consumption via inhalation or sublingually only. There are currently no topical products available for prescription at the time of writing this article.
Although medical cannabis is available in different forms, the way you consume is down to personal preference and your clinicians recommendation. They’ll advise you based on your symptoms and condition, but they’ll also work with you to find what you’re comfortable with. Remember, you may not choose the right form at first, so speak to your clinician if you have any questions or preferences.
Another thing you may want to keep in mind is avoiding formulations that may irritate the gastric lining. For example edibles high in sugar. And we always recommend you start low and go slow to avoid any unwanted effects.
Is Medical Cannabis Prescribed for Gastritis or Related GI Issues in the UK?
Yes, medical cannabis can be prescribed for gastritis and other gut related chronic conditions such as IBS, Crohn’s Disease, chronic GI pain. It’s actually been legal in the UK since 1st November 2018 when prescribed by a specialist doctor, like the ones found at licensed medical cannabis clinics like Alternaleaf.
To be eligible, you’ll need a diagnosis for a qualifying condition, and to have been offered at least two conventional treatments for this condition. This can include medication, talking therapy, physiotherapy, surgery and anything else prescribed by your GP. Keep in mind, if you’re pregnant or have a history of psychosis or schizophrenia, you won’t qualify.
Just because it’s legal in the UK, doesn’t mean it’s legal everywhere. It’s always a good idea to check if you’re travelling somewhere, what their rules and laws are around medical cannabis.
We prescribe for 50+ other conditions at Alternaleaf, including chronic pain, anxiety, depression, ADHD and autism. We offer expert guidance throughout your medical cannabis journey to ensure safe and effective use. Find out if you’re eligible by heading to our website and completing our 30 second eligibility checker.
Summary
While traditional treatments remain important for managing gastritis, medical cannabis for digestive issues may offer a valuable complementary option.
The best thing to do is speak to your clinician, or seek the help of a licensed medical cannabis clinic like Alternaleaf if you’re considering medical cannabis treatment. Find out if you’re eligible by heading to our website and completing our 30 second eligibility checker.