Gastroparesis is a medical condition that affects the stomach’s ability to empty its contents properly. This condition can cause nausea, vomiting, bloating, and abdominal pain. While there is no cure for gastroparesis, medical marijuana has shown promise in alleviating some of its symptoms. In this article, we will explore the best medical marijuana strains for gastroparesis patients.
Understanding Gastroparesis
Gastroparesis is a condition that affects the muscles in the stomach. These muscles are responsible for contracting and pushing food through the digestive system. In a person with gastroparesis, the muscles in the stomach are weakened or damaged, which leads to a delay in emptying food from the stomach.
The main symptoms of gastroparesis include nausea, vomiting, bloating, and abdominal pain. These symptoms can be debilitating, leading to a decreased quality of life. Gastroparesis can be caused by several factors, including diabetes, surgery, or medications.
Medical Marijuana for Gastroparesis
Medical marijuana has been shown to have several beneficial effects on gastroparesis symptoms. The cannabinoids in marijuana, including THC and CBD, have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that can help alleviate nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Additionally, medical marijuana can stimulate appetite, which is especially beneficial for gastroparesis patients who struggle with maintaining a healthy weight due to their condition. However, not all strains of marijuana are created equal when it comes to treating gastroparesis symptoms.
Best Strains for Gastroparesis
- Harlequin
Harlequin is a sativa-dominant strain that is high in CBD and low in THC. This strain has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in reducing nausea and vomiting.
- Cannatonic
Cannatonic is a hybrid strain that has a balanced ratio of CBD and THC. This strain has a relaxing effect that can help alleviate anxiety and abdominal pain.
- Sour Diesel
Sour Diesel is a sativa-dominant strain that is high in THC. This strain has a strong energizing effect that can help stimulate appetite and reduce nausea.
- Girl Scout Cookies
Girl Scout Cookies is a hybrid strain that is high in THC. This strain has a euphoric effect that can help alleviate anxiety and depression, which are common in gastroparesis patients.
- Blue Dream
Blue Dream is a sativa-dominant strain that is high in THC. This strain has a calming effect that can help reduce nausea and vomiting.
Edibles and Tinctures
In addition to smoking or vaping marijuana, gastroparesis patients can also benefit from using edibles or tinctures. Edibles are food products that are infused with marijuana, while tinctures are liquid extracts that are taken orally.
Edibles and tinctures are a great option for gastroparesis patients who cannot or prefer not to smoke or vape marijuana. These products have a slower onset time but provide longer-lasting relief for symptoms such as nausea and abdominal pain.
Conclusion
Gastroparesis is a debilitating condition that can greatly impact a person’s quality of life. While there is no cure for this condition, medical marijuana has shown promise in alleviating some of its symptoms.
Harlequin, Cannatonic, Sour Diesel, Girl Scout Cookies, and Blue Dream are some of the best strains of medical marijuana for gastroparesis patients. Additionally, edibles and tinctures are a great alternative for those who do not want to smoke or vape marijuana.
It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using medical marijuana to treat gastroparesis symptoms. With the right strain and dosage, medical marijuana can provide much-needed relief for gastroparesis patients.
