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Sticky Medical Marijuana for Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis

Hey Guys,

I know the answer is somewhere probably in this thread but its 47 pages long.

Has anyone found a study where CBD OIL (Without THC) has induced remission? or has CBD oil only been proven to reduce disease activity?
 
I haven't seen any studies indicating that CBD alone can induce remission. So far, all indications are that some THC is necessary. I found this study particularly helpful in arriving at a ratio: https://www.cbd.org/sites/cbd/files/downloads/cbdpatientsurvey_september2015_carebydesign.pdf

We're currently using a 1:4 THC:CBD, and my kiddo has been asymptomatic for months. However, we just got his latest calprotectin test back, and it's over 500 (had been down to 125 earlier in treatment, when we were using a higher proportion of THC). I'm thinking we may need to up the THC in the ratio to get this down. Anyone have insight on this -- addressing inflammation when symptoms aren't a problem?
 

Lady Organic

Moderator
Staff member
treatment should be the same for histologic (biopsy) or clinical symptoms. Before becoming symptomatic, inflammation always starts at a microscopic level, it is so minor we dont feel it. I'd definately return to the previous THC dose your son was getting. Good luck and let us know.
 
J'sMom, my son doesn't use medical marijuana as treatment but wanted to chime in on the active inflammation/no symptoms as this has been the course of his disease for some time. He has active inflammation yet experiences no symptoms and has been in this state for maybe 2.5 years. It was actually this way for 1.5 years then he required surgery due to the severity.

The gold standard GIs try to achieve is deep stable remission which incudes clinical (no symptoms), endoscopic (visually clean) and histologic (clean biopsy)with mucosal healing. Studies have shown this level of remission lessens the risk of permanent damage from simmering inflammation that can lead to obstructions, stricturing and surgery. Which is important in kids since they have a higher risk of multiple surgeries due to more aggressive disease.

Hope treatment works to bring everything under control quickly!
 
Thank you. We actually just had MR enterography yesterday, and his gut looked really good -- no strictures, fistulas, or thickening of the bowel lining. Looks like we've got pretty good control over all.
 
I'd be interested to know what dosages and ratios others use, both for maintenance and when they need to address active inflammation. I just visited the MMJ doc and was hoping for more specific guidance, but he basically tells me I'm the expert. I appreciate that, but I'd like to think someone has more expertise than I do in what ratios tend to work best for IBD.
 
This is a loooong thread, and I have to admit to being too lazy to browse more than just a few pages. I see a lot of "I tried it and it helped" anecdotal posts, but I'm wondering - are there any folks who tried it and it did nothing for them? I'm not trying to rain on the parade (I have no particular dog in this fight, and heck, I'd love to have another possible tool in the toolbox), but it would be nice to know whether it really is this holy grail with nothing negative to say about it (other than the side effects of marijuana itself).
 

David

Co-Founder
Location
Naples, Florida
I'd be interested in the same Isaac. However, I wouldn't be surprised if nobody reports that it did NOTHING as, if you have a positive experience with marijuana, it is going to make you feel better for some duration even if it doesn't affect the state of your disease at all.
 
Anybody benefitted from medical marijuana to help from strictures and blood?
I use it to help with pain, appetite, vomiting, and sleep. Best thing I've ever used for crohns in my life, but I am the 5 to 10 percent of patients that can't tolerate the crohns meds. I have had active disease for 10 yrs with no relief and 2 surgeries. I've tried everything but entyvio which I am saving so I have some sort of hope for my future even though I know it's not going to work for me. The side effects from my pain meds and anti nausea meds make me sleep all the time and when I smoke I can actually get out of bed and do some things around the house and spend time with my family. My aunt passed away from liver failure due to pain killers she was on for crohns so that is why i was looking for an alternative to pain meds. I actually have a life worth living when i smoke. I'm not 100% yet but in my opinion it's my miracle drug. If I didn't have it I would probably be in the hospital and in so much pain I would be wishing for death because that's how I feel when I don't smoke. Smoking is new to me so I have no clinical proof yet that my strictures have improved but my doc made it sound like there is no healing me at this point. He seems to think it's permanently damaged and I will need another surgery very soon. I have noticed less blood and sometimes even no blood which has never in my life happened. I have tried cbd oil once and plan to work with my gi. Since I don't have any other options my gi said he would do what he can to help with dosing and to monitor me while on cbd oil. I find it amusing he warned me that it may help but it's not going to cure me. I find it funny because I never once got that warning before any of the meds I tried and they almost killed me. Having severe crohns for such a long time and knowing all of the meds available make me worse and cause more problems I think the docs and research and meds available for crohns is bs. People are dying from crohns yet its always recorded as a complication of crohns. My insurance won't cover a dietician in less I have diabetes. And they also don't cover holistic docs but they have no problem pumping poison in my veins that can kill me or give me cancer. And some meds even have mouse DNA wtf? Although we have come a long way with crohns awareness and research we are still extremely far away from where I think we should be now. I'm going on vacation soon and I'm worried about my kids finding out I'm on medical marijuana. I can't bring anything on the plane so I'm hoping they will let me go to their dispensaries with my card. Which means traveling is going to be a painful hell for me and hopefully I don't throw up in front of anyone. I have to buy all new smoking devices because those can't even go on the plane. I can't smoke in the hotel with my kids so I have to smoke outside which may not go over to well with people or even cops walking by, but I don't see any other option. I can use edibles I guess but smoking is instant relief so I prefer it. I just can't believe this day in age and I have to be worried about getting in trouble just so I can live a somewhat normal life with crohns. I don't even have the freedom to make my own decisions about my health care cause my insurance won't cover it. And I've already had to file for bankruptcy once because of medical bills and expensive meds I was on before they had these assistance programs that they have today. We're not nearly as far as we should be with crohns research. In my opinion most people don't even know how serious this disease really is which is extremely frustrating.
 
Marijuana helped my son feel better, definitely gave him an appetite, but it may have also masked his symptoms. It actually made him get very paranoid the last couple of times he used it. No miracle for us, sadly. He hasn't used it in over a year and we live in Colorado, so he could if he wanted to.
 
Hi All, What a long post. There is certainly a lot of interest in the topic. It begs for more medical research. I think we all know how long these studies take. It can get pretty frustrating. I am new to the forum and I must say I love it. You guys have so much covered here. I have been doing some research on the subject with a recent flare. I smoked as a teenager and may of done it twice a year the last 20 years. I too am extremely curious about 'does it work or are we just getting high?' question. Last weekend I made my own oil and drank it in a cup of tea. I put probably a gram in a cupcake pan, covered it with coconut oil, put aluminum foil over it, put the oven on 350 for 25 minutes and voila ...oil. I didn't think it would work until I put a 1/2 teaspoon in my cup of tea (not a lot) it took two hours to kick in ..but it most certainly did. No doubt I felt good and the urgency died down the next day as well as I had the best night sleep in weeks.
 
Marijuana helped my son feel better, definitely gave him an appetite, but it may have also masked his symptoms. It actually made him get very paranoid the last couple of times he used it. No miracle for us, sadly. He hasn't used it in over a year and we live in Colorado, so he could if he wanted to.
FYI, making sure you're getting a substantial amount of CBD along with the THC can help to reduce paranoia and anxiety. Also, you don't mention how your son used it, but ingesting works better than smoking and also delivers the medicine right to the gut, where it can work best.
 
SOrry, for some reason I haven't got updates on the thread and with my new computer I lost my password and can't get the site to send me a new one. I just directed someone here and when I looked up the site I found this post.

I can't remember right now where I read it. I think it was personal experience on an MJ website. here are some links to the benefits of THCA.

unitedpatientsgroup website blog on CBD, THC, THCA, CBN etc. has a good resource for the benefits of juicing cannabis or using non decarbed for autoimmune diseases. Unfortunately I need 10 posts to give the link but a search of THCA and crohns should bring them up

leafly and CBDFARM websites also have info on THCA

I just started CBD strain oil. I have been told by the cannabis producer and councellor at my clinic we must heat the THC in order for it to become activated and effective.

Where can I get information on your claim that non decarbed THC has medicinal effect?
thank you!
 
Hi there. Have some questions for you folks.

Someone who is not me has been having some intense GI issues for 6 months. Upper endoscopy revealed little. No colonoscopy has been done. Marijuana helps this person.

This person has been recommended to get a calprotectin test done.

This person wants to minimize the chances of a false negative. This person gets bad cramps all day long, mucous plugs, general unsightly poos with horrible odor and gut is increasingly distended yet a CT reveals no catastrophic processes.

This person also regretfully consumes an excess of alcohol, which shall be dealt with promptly. However, this person wants the calprotectin test to show anything if there is anything to show. Since cannabis is so effective at treating some of the symptoms, should someone who is not me be cautious about the use of cannabis and the possibility of a false negative on a calprotectin test?

This is my first post.
 
So I searched this thread for keys to whether any part of MMJ would help with fistulae. I only saw one post by Farkle that did not look good. I'm hoping someone has new (good) answers.

Every med i've gone on has wreaked havoc on my body and brain.
 
So I searched this thread for keys to whether any part of MMJ would help with fistulae. I only saw one post by Farkle that did not look good. I'm hoping someone has new (good) answers.

Every med i've gone on has wreaked havoc on my body and brain.
After multiple surgeries for peri-anal, and watching the drugs carefully, I can't say anything positive about MMJ as far as helping this issue. The basics are the hot sit baths and watching medications and diet.
I got through many of them without surgeries, all of them horrible.
Recently, one of my doctors tried to get me to take a vitamin D, once a week thing. I immediately started again with the fistula soreness. I went online and discovered two connective studies saying that it causes this. I asked that doctor and they said no, so I showed them the studies. They still don't see any connection. So ignorance will stay ignorance.
What I have discovered, is that the usual cause for me is an imbalance of serotonin in the gut, usually caused by serotonin producing bacteria. Yes, there is such a thing. Reduction can be as simple as drinking lots of tonic water with quinine, or you can try tianeptine to reduce it.
I feel much better now and I'm glad I don't have that issue, working on the rest of the health now, slowly, a piece at a time.
Let me know if you need any pointers.
 
I've been on vitamin D for many yrs (5000IU) and have never had resultant fistula pain. I used coconut oil after my last surgery. I also use cannabis (ingested) but the biggest improvements have been noted when using raw fresh ginger. I ate so much of it that it blocked the tract. The pain was as great as the intial abscess and I thought I was headed back to hospital. I did a few sitz baths and found the tract clogged with fibrous ginger root! I've not had any issue with that tract since. I also take a natural vitamin E and have started using LivingTree bovine colostrum powder twice daily - wow, the healing continues to surprise me! Small things like moles, a small cyst I had for yrs are now gone. Even a recent flare up was nothing like past experiences. I was still actually able to get around, even walk the dog on a few 'feel safe' days. This would have never happened in the past. I also eat a lot of dandelions, stevia, tarragon and many other herbs & veg from my own yard. I also render my own lard and drink lots of vege and bone broths/stocks.

Good health to us all and remember: one size does not fit all.
 
Very interesting!

Can you expand on how you are healing? Specifically the fistula. How many or how big was it/they? And now? After how long of these supplements?

I'm a little concerned about the ginger fiber clog.


Thanks :)
 
I was put on prescription vitamin D in 2004 but after constant blood tests showed low vitamin D and drs not increasing the dose I dropped it around 2009 and didn't take anything for yrs.

Hospitalised in 2004 for abscess. My aftercare was poor from a medical standpoint and I wasn't even aware it was Crohn's-related.

2007 that same spot turned abscess again, this time resulting in fistula, seton placement - just hideous! A hole as a big as my pinkie finger left in my body. That's when I really started researching and found all these issues are drug-suppressed immune system symptoms. Survived the pain by using anesethic-based roid ointment mixed with recently discovered coconut oil.

2011 when I had the ginger binge and haven't had an issue with the fistula since - meaning I could now sit without giving it a second thought, drive without being tense, sneeze without worrying about any pain etc. I applied coconut oil to the area many times a day after that and also eat a tsp a day.

Note: that ginger was stuck in the tract for some days before I tried the sitz bath, as I was convinced it was an abscess. The pain wasn't unbearable given the rewards.

I also dumped the Imuran in 2011 and started building myself up with high- density nutrition -- homemade bone / chicken broths/vege stocks etc. I was spending a fortune on heartburn remedies until someone put me onto the wonders of apple cider vinegar. The result was instant and I haven't bought any heartburn concoctions since around 2010/11.

Started taking 5000IU dose in 2013 and now my blood tests come back great. My dr said, " whatever you are doing for vitamin D, don't stop!" I use the sun on my skin in winter and the 5000IU in summer.

2016 started taking bovine colostrum and just feel well! Gums are healing. Fistula feels nice and soft - no issues if I sit on a hard surface for a short time.

I still eat ginger most days in some form or another; smoothies, tea, bone broths.

A 3cm chunk (peeled) goes into my green apple, dandelion and pineapple smoothie (high healing vitamin C) each morning. I also use lots of coconut water and coconut cream / milk. High density nutrition is the key, at least for me.

I hope this helps Mish, I had to get out my medical records for some of the dates lol. Time passes so fast!
 
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"This person wants to minimize the chances of a false negative. This person gets bad cramps all day long, mucous plugs, general unsightly poos with horrible odor and gut is increasingly distended yet a CT reveals no catastrophic processes."

This sounds like a gut in desperate need of probiotics ... before it gets any worse. 2 caps of organic apple cider vinegar with honey in 50mls of warm boiled water before each meal is where I would start.
 
Does anyone know a GI specialist in Oregon who is at all open to MMJ and other natural treatments? Our current peds GI doc is "very uncomfortable" with our regimen (despite good test results and no symptoms) and wants us to get a second opinion. I'd like to find someone who isn't so completely closed off to this course of treatment (especially when my kiddo is vastly healthier than he was when he was on prednisone, azathioprine, etc.) and not relentlessly push us toward carcinogenic immunosuppressant medications.
 
Mostly I'm posting this because I'm interested in reading the private forum, and I'm new, and you need to have at least one post to see it.

I have ulcerative colitis, for many years it was pretty much just an occasional annoyance, but I've been flaring almost continuously for about a year now. I've already failed on various forms of mesalamine and balsalazide. Prednisone works, but only for the couple of weeks that I'm actually taking it, as soon as I stop all the symptoms just come right back. It used to be I would flare, take a short course of prednisone, and then be in remission for a year or more. But I've taken a short course of prednisone 4 times in the past year, and I guess that's just not the case anymore. I know you can't just take prednisone forever.

I have tried various dietary changes (FODMAP, specific carbohydrate diet, gluten free, dairy free), supplements (turmeric, fish oil), probiotics (VSL3) ... some of it might help, but I haven't seen a dramatic enough effect to be sure.

The GI wants me to take some sort of biologic, but they sound scary, so I wanted to give this a try first. I just recently got my MMJ card, so now I'm trying to figure out what kind, how to take it, how much, etc. Lots of good info here, thank you everyone for sharing your stories.
 
I've had Crohn's for about 50 years but never so severe as to require surgery or extreme pain. Instead, I've suffered from diarrhea for this time--at 1st 3 times per day but now from 5 to 8. Everyday I'm uncomfortable.
I take Humira and I smoke a lot of marijuana. I've been smoking ever since law school in San Francisco in the late 60's and have done it steadily except for a 15 year span about 15 years ago.
If I don't smoke I feel sick. I lose my appetite and food repulses me. The Humira helps but without the marijauna I don't feel well. I keep testing this when I travel overseas--no marijuana. After just 1 day, I start feeling lousy and the diarrhea becomes fierce (8 times a day) I stay that way until I get home and smoke. Honestly, it works almost instantly and I feel better.
Even with Humira and marijuana, I'd like to find a different alternative to get rid of the diarrhea and my discomfort. In the meantime, marijuana is a Godsend.
 
"The use of Cannabis for more than 6 months at any time for IBD symptoms was a strong predictor of requiring surgery in patients with Crohn's disease"

http://journals.lww.com/ibdjournal/...se_Provides_Symptom_Relief_in_Patients.6.aspx

In other words you feel better because Cannabis covers up the symptoms but does not stop the inflammatory process. I found that Humira stopped working for me after about 6 years. have switched to Entyvio, a biologic but not in the same class as Humira or Cimzia, and it seems to be taking effect OK.
 
I believe the marijuana reduces inflammation as well as masking the pain and discomfort.
Although a predictor of the need for surgery, I've gone 50 years without making me somewhat unique.
I'm not advocating that anyone use marijuana just that it has helped me tremendously.
 
I'm new here and am only really posting to access the private forum. I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis last september with a nasty flair up that had me hospitalised for a few days. I was then in remission for a few months before having another bad flair up from December through to Feb/March.
I've since been in remission on a combination of Azathioprine and Mezavant XL. The only way i have been able to make my life livable over the last 4months, and be able to start returning to work, has been to be able to smoke marijuana to stop the unbearable nausea and control the constant pain and discomfort. I am fascinated by this amazing plant and all the beneficial medicinal effects it can have to people suffering from lifelong debilitating conditions.
 
I am in the United Kingdom where medical cannabis (marijuana) is illegal. However, I have a "friend" who has Crohn's disease who reports that cannabis helps greatly with the pain/inflamation and the side effect profile is a lot more preferable to azaphioprine. Should this be something to bring up with the doctor?
 
Hi, just posting for access.
I started out with aza and pentasa,moved on to remicade which seemed to have been a miracle drug. I built up antibodies to it unfortunately and moved to humira. Humira wasn't helping after awhile, so now I'm on entivio and 6mp. Still in pain daily, losing weight (92 lbs) and I'm looking into getting my medical marijuana card here in Oregon. I smoke already, but I'm interested in cbd as a treatment as well. Nervous to talk to my gastro about the idea though.
 
Hearing all of these success stories is really encouraging. When I asked my first GI a couple of years ago what he thought about MM for my UC he said any doctor who gave me marijuana to treat my disease should lose their medical license. Instead he decided to keep me on the same drug plan (Asacol only) for two whole years despite no real remission and continuously dropping iron levels. Now I'm on azathioprine and Humira as well but they give me bad side effects like frequent nausea (for which I've been proscribed 2 more drugs to treat). This all seems insane but I've been discouraged from asking about MM with my new GI thanks to the original response the first time I asked. I would really love to get off some of my prescriptions and think MM would help me a lot so thanks to everyone for posting your stories! I think I'll have to have a chat with my GI next week to see if I could me some medical cannabis
 
Lisa; I've told each and every doctor I see, including my GI, a rheumatologist, infectious diseases and an orthopedic surgeon, and none has specifically advised nor did they say don't use. They know it's helping but, in my judgment, their ethics prohibit them from encouraging its use.
Do the research, marijuana is great for nausea.
I now use Humira (once per week) and smoke a lot of marijuana. No real pain, just discomfort, although I do have a partial obstruction.
To be honest, I'm thriving.
 
This is interesting now im starting to wonder does it cure our disease or just manage symptoms and if you were able to leave your meds
 
I've just been prescribed 10mg of Elavil daily and I also have been using MMJ for a year now(I waited until 50 to give it a try haha). I'm wondering if anyone else happens to be using both these meds simultaneously?
 
My GI is recommending Imuran for moderate inflammation and now an ulceration of my terminal ileum. Really would like to stay more natural and avoid chemicals and cancer causing drugs. What is the best way to get the benefits of cannabis to the terminal ileum? THC oil in foods? I have never tried marijuana and apprehensive as well. Thanks much!
 
I need to get recommendations about dosage of MM for treating bleeding, which the hematologist says must be from my Crohn's. Have terrible restless leg/periodic limb movement disorder that may be resolved by successfully treating my anemia. First infusion did nothing so I must be losing blood. I don't have other Crohn's symptoms that I am as concerned with, but do not want to take the nasty, expensive Crohn's drugs. Any experience or research, etc. to share is much appreciated.
 
Hi, I have a practical question.
Do we start using Marijuana oil during steroids or after steroid short cure?
If anyone knows it would be much appreciated.

Bucephalus
 
It is my experience that the marijuana acts as an anti-inflammatory and has other benefits including how it makes you feel mentally. Some like the feeling while others don't. Thus, to answer your question, if the purpose is to reduce inflammation, let the steroids work first. If you like the way it makes you feel, I don't think using both is a problem--it hasn't been for me.
Good luck
 
Thanks a lot 'pamshusband'!
I have another practical question:
What is the easiest way to dilute concentration of MM oil to accommodate smaller bodies or kids?
 
I have found that very low doses of thc and cbd can really help with my symptoms without too much of a stoned feeling. Helps ease my body physically and mentally. I recommend super low doses for anyone looking to start using MMJ, start low and work your way up.
 
Hey everyone question about CBD. I can not find a clear answer about this...is it legal? I want to try it but I want to make sure I'm covered before doing so. I've heard it is really helpful for people with Crohn's!
 
Hello,

A very important question :

-We know smoking is bad for crohn.
-Vaping only weed ( no tobacco) and in a vape pen ( at low temp) is bad too, or not ?

I'm using THC as oil, great, but sometimes, vaping weed is good to lower pain and relax....by the way i would like to know if vaping is bad too.

Thanks a lot,

Seuxin
 
Also what brands does anyone use and have had the best luck with?
Hello. I use an alcohol tincture made from a strain called Swiss Tsunami. The strain is very low THC and high CBD (it varies from batch to batch but I believe the last batch tested at around 1% THC to 17% CBD).
I've found that I've needed to increase my dose over the past couple of years to achieve the same effect. It's expensive to test each batch for content and it can be difficult to know exactly how much to take without the THC to give you that feedback of getting high, but my physician (in Oregon you need a physician to diagnose and sign for a card that allows you to participate in the medical marijuana program) suggested increasing the dose. There's some thought that changing the strain after long-term use is helpful and I'm going to switch to another strain recommended by my grower for my next batch, but I do not recall the name. It's another strain with low THC and high CBD.

I've tried mixing in small amounts of a high THC strain to the tincture batch but I'm quite sensitive to the psychotropic effects and find it difficult to dose if there's enough THC to feel it.

It has helped with cramps and joint pain, nausea, insomnia and anxiety. I've noticed a difference in how I feel when I travel and don't have tincture with me. I should add that I am also on Remicade, which has allowed me to function in the world but doesn't cure all. Hope this helps.
 
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My GI is recommending Imuran for moderate inflammation and now an ulceration of my terminal ileum. Really would like to stay more natural and avoid chemicals and cancer causing drugs. What is the best way to get the benefits of cannabis to the terminal ileum? THC oil in foods? I have never tried marijuana and apprehensive as well. Thanks much!
I haven't tried this but the OMMP clinic doctor suggested using a small dose of Rick Simpson oil rectally.
 
No. I don't smoke it. I use tincture, a vaporizer and CBD oil. It was recommended for Crohn's, but I don't know the dosage, and I use it for tremors and sleep with some effect. Sorry.
 
Hi all, hope everyone is doing good.

I really wish they would make a MMJ group do we can have more than one thread going. It is hard to fish through this thread for the info you need.

I've been using a simple vaporizer for my oils. I refill them a couple times but it gets too thick. I've purchased some vegetable glycerin. Can anyone help direct me on how to add it, how much? How to Mix it?

I couldn't find anything on youtube.

Thank you
 
My GI actually recommended high CBD low THC for me, and it seems to help. It also doesn't affect my mind the way high THC marijuana would. But I'm an adult. You've probably seen that there are a couple of parents on the forum whose GIs have suggested high CBD marijuana for their kids.
 

dave13

Forum Monitor
Location
Maine
My GI is on board with cannabis as a treatment. He told me he read papers where colitis patience were helped and is fine with me using cannabis. I will try not to rant,but,cannabis is like diet to mainstream medical. They are not willing to concede that it helps...in my opinion.
 
Hi everyone! I hope you all are doing wonderful and finding that magic ratio or strain of mmj that puts and keeps you in remission!
Its been a while since I've been on here.
Just wanted to give you an update on Coltyn... He's STILL in remission!!!!
Going on 3 YEARS!
:)
He's taking a 1:1 ratio 15mg per capsule 4 times a day. Isolated CO2 extraction. no specific strain.
Cannabis works.
Coltyn started his cannabis journey when he was 13, but really started using cannabis as his only medication on March 25, 2014.
3 years guys. He was 14 years old. And hes only grown and became NORMAL.
I wanted to thank Dave and Joe for all their support and love throughout Coltyn's journey, we couldn't have done it with out you! Much Love to you both. <3
 
We live in Chicago it's not approved for kids. Only adults with crohns can have it. He's 12. The only thing I can get him is the cbd oil with no thc. I have thought about taking a leave and taking him to a different state but I have two other children in school. I hope one day
 
You may want to check with your mmj provider one more time. All Children with all conditions are covered in IL with THC. I know Crohns is covered. I fought for that.
 
Thank you! I asked his doctor they don't give it but his dad has crohns and will look further. I thought he would have to wait until 18. This is great news i feel hopeful!
 
I just wanted to share my experience....lots of questions out there about what to take and how. My research begin with the benefits of just using my CBD. I took it via capsule and found it to work minimally. I can't handle too much THC as I get anxious and paranoid, but reading lots about the real benefits of whole plant therapy, I felt I needed to find something with both. I began to vape a 1:1 strain called Pennywise. I LOVE IT! It just relaxes and calms my guts. No racing thoughts or paranoia. While its an Indica, I don't feel super drowsy but can easily fall asleep when btime comes. I also sometimes take a 1:1 cbd/thc capsule and enjoy that too as I can function well without being super stoned. Lol my aches and joint pain ease off and I can eat without fear. I'd like to try the tincture next.
While I'm not yet confident enough to go off the Humira and go strictly mmj, I'm happy to be off all prescription painkillers.
 
I just wanted to share my experience....lots of questions out there about what to take and how. My research begin with the benefits of just using my CBD. I took it via capsule and found it to work minimally. I can't handle too much THC as I get anxious and paranoid, but reading lots about the real benefits of whole plant therapy, I felt I needed to find something with both. I began to vape a 1:1 strain called Pennywise. I LOVE IT! It just relaxes and calms my guts. No racing thoughts or paranoia. While its an Indica, I don't feel super drowsy but can easily fall asleep when btime comes. I also sometimes take a 1:1 cbd/thc capsule and enjoy that too as I can function well without being super stoned. Lol my aches and joint pain ease off and I can eat without fear. I'd like to try the tincture next.
While I'm not yet confident enough to go off the Humira and go strictly mmj, I'm happy to be off all prescription painkillers.

Hey DanaBanana, thanks for sharing your experience, I notice you are in BC too! I am from Vancouver and I have just recently been experimenting with a 1:1 ratio cannabis plant, it seems to help out very much and has little negative side effects. If only I could find something for the fatigue I experience haha. Cheers neighbour! :thumright:
 
Hey DanaBanana, thanks for sharing your experience, I notice you are in BC too! I am from Vancouver and I have just recently been experimenting with a 1:1 ratio cannabis plant, it seems to help out very much and has little negative side effects. If only I could find something for the fatigue I experience haha. Cheers neighbour! :thumright:
Wow, a fellow Canuck! Cheers, eh!! Hehe

Too cool! I'm in the Okanagan. :) I hear on the fatigue. Relentless at times. I'm pretty used to being a zombie....but I find the cannabis makes for a more smiley,giggly and zenful zombie. Haha
 

Hello I joined because my son has Crohns and is 22 has had it since he was about 12. He also has a learning disability which is why as his advocate I joined the forum.

He took Mecapipurine and Balsaliside ( spelling). He had two huge flare ups in the year resulting in a long hospital stay and two ER visits. The Doctor wants him on Remicate and or Humira. My son and us do not want him on these harsh medications and have read over time tolerance builds up. I read a few trials and articles on Canibus and thought would be a good idea. Here where I live its legal and we have a medical marijuana card.

Our Gastro Doctor wont even discuss it with us , I mean wont even have a dialog period leaving us to make a choice on his meds or natural with Marijuana. We have a few more weeks before committing.

I did allot of trials study before starting I am not giving medical advice this us what we are using and the results.

Canibus 20% THC, 1.5 CBD, .7gr 2x per day. He weighs about 170 and is average build and is 22.
We have now been doing this about a month he is doing well some watery stools and diarrhea time to time but watery here and there.
We use a Vaporizer that plugs into AC, works great.

I was curious of those why do use it what dosage are you trying? Not looking for medical advice, just doing research to see what works for others.
Also has anyone done Marijuana long term for Crohns ?

Thank You
 

Bufford

Well-known member
I've used cannabis all my life and last year got approved for medical cannabis. I am experimenting the differences between indica and sativa & CBD. I have found indica gives me an excellent sleep. Better sleep has improved my quality of life. Before I had been approved my supply was often interrupted. Now that I can keep a regular supply on hand it appears that my CD symptoms are improving. I also find that enjoying some cannabis an hour before the meal helps with appetite.
 
What is the difference between the legal hemp oil, like Charlottes Web and watch you can not get everywhere? Is it a waste to try the hemp oil?
 
What is the difference between the legal hemp oil, like Charlottes Web and watch you can not get everywhere? Is it a waste to try the hemp oil?
According to the tests done it has to do with the CBD's more then the THC. However often the oils found are not very high in CBD. We are using a CBD of 20% and only a THC of 5% . Most people use a THC of 20% and maybe .5 CBD to get high and that really doesn't do much for Crohns. That said the Cannibus does help with discomfort too but caution should be used not to cover up symptoms though. The CBD is reported to assist the bacteria response in the digestive track that Crohns patients have. If insurance and doctors would not be so paranoid then Cannibus oil pills would be best and would treat the Crohns more efficiently. So what one is looking for in the oil is the CBD, if there is none then it wont do much. However the THC is also seen in some strains to help calm the over reaction of the digestive track and assist in things like Diarrhea.
 
i have seen many people who are suffering from conical disease and taking lots of medicine but have no relief . Then I will strongly recommend that go for natural therapy like yoga and full natural massage therapy which really help
 
I have some questions hoping someone can help with. I am on Entyvio, but not sure it's working. If anything it's stabilizing me, but I have a branched fistula with two setons, and still have a stricture at terminal ileum and ulcerations in that area last MRE.

I've smoked mj daily for years, and have felt like it helps calm my gut and mind. My GI doctors are very against it, so I don't tell them. Obviously it hasn't put me into remission.

The last time my setons were replaced, during the procedure I was under "twilight" anesthesia, and stopped breathing. My husband just read that mj can cause you stop breathing during anesthesia, so wants me to stop smoking. Recently the seton fell out, so I need to go back in and get it replaced, so haven't been smoking. Any thoughts on this?

I need to try something else, and want to try CBD oil. Do you need a medical license to get it? I'm in CA. Where do people get it? Can you buy it online? What is the recommended dose and ratio?

Thank you! (Sorry, I know this has all probably been discussed on this thread, and I'm trying to find it, but there's so much info it's hard to get through.)
 
Hi,
thanks a lot for this forum, very interesting!
I have Crohn's diagnosed 5 years ago, after my father passed away. Looking for alternative meds, as I can't take some traditional meds due to a bad liver.
Looking to vaporize cannabis possibilities and want to get some details about the best option for the most appropriate strains.
 
So I just started vaping CBD. I'm starting at 100mg. But warning, have a tank set aside just for your CBD and I mix it with e juice. It's BAD. It's supposed to have the same benefits as medical mj but without the high. So, if you looking for the high, your not going to get it. There's a lot of stuff on YouTube and research about CBD and Crohn's. I did my research. There are no, "this is how much you take". It's available online. Here's some links I watched.

https://youtu.be/g2WO3JEg6Ic
https://youtu.be/2hru0AWGDrI

Hope this helps a little. I'm post-op right now. CBD isn't strong enough to deal with this kind of pain. So, maybe later I'll be able to give a better review. Sorry.
 
I was put on prescription vitamin D in 2004 but after constant blood tests showed low vitamin D and drs not increasing the dose I dropped it around 2009 and didn't take anything for yrs.

Hospitalised in 2004 for abscess. My aftercare was poor from a medical standpoint and I wasn't even aware it was Crohn's-related.

2007 that same spot turned abscess again, this time resulting in fistula, seton placement - just hideous! A hole as a big as my pinkie finger left in my body. That's when I really started researching and found all these issues are drug-suppressed immune system symptoms. Survived the pain by using anesethic-based roid ointment mixed with recently discovered coconut oil.

2011 when I had the ginger binge and haven't had an issue with the fistula since - meaning I could now sit without giving it a second thought, drive without being tense, sneeze without worrying about any pain etc. I applied coconut oil to the area many times a day after that and also eat a tsp a day.

Note: that ginger was stuck in the tract for some days before I tried the sitz bath, as I was convinced it was an abscess. The pain wasn't unbearable given the rewards.

I also dumped the Imuran in 2011 and started building myself up with high- density nutrition -- homemade bone / chicken broths/vege stocks etc. I was spending a fortune on heartburn remedies until someone put me onto the wonders of apple cider vinegar. The result was instant and I haven't bought any heartburn concoctions since around 2010/11.

Started taking 5000IU dose in 2013 and now my blood tests come back great. My dr said, " whatever you are doing for vitamin D, don't stop!" I use the sun on my skin in winter and the 5000IU in summer.

2016 started taking bovine colostrum and just feel well! Gums are healing. Fistula feels nice and soft - no issues if I sit on a hard surface for a short time.

I still eat ginger most days in some form or another; smoothies, tea, bone broths.

A 3cm chunk (peeled) goes into my green apple, dandelion and pineapple smoothie (high healing vitamin C) each morning. I also use lots of coconut water and coconut cream / milk. High density nutrition is the key, at least for me.

I hope this helps Mish, I had to get out my medical records for some of the dates lol. Time passes so fast!
How do you use the apple cidar vinagar? That it replaced heart burn medicine?
 
I live in a state where medial marijuana is not legal, however, CBD oil, which is 50 state legal, has helped me tremendously. I have severe crohns and been hospitalized several times for bowel obstructions even while taking the prescribed medicine. After reading the studies of tests done on medical marijuana's effect on crohns, I decided to try the next best things that is legal. It helps my pain level without the side effects of the pain medicine prescribed (tramadol, Vicodin, Percocet) which seem to do nothing for me.
 
New to this forum and have been experimenting with MMJ for IBS. I was wondering if I'm in the right place since IBS and Crohns are not exactly the same. Do you think the same strains may work for IBS? Most of the information I've found is specific to Crohns.
 
From the studies I have seen, the same applies for all types of IBD.
Well, that's the thing. IBS isn't an inflammatory condition. It can cause inflammation, but it's not the primary way the condition manifests itself. I believe it is more of a spastic condition. My bowels are erratic and sensitive, but I don't have the extreme pain or bleeding that some of you guys can have...

So, I was just wondering what type of overlap there may be in treating IBS and IBD/crohns. I'm not sure what attributes to look for in a strain...
 
From cresco labs:
[A Brief
Description
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or spastic colon, ranks as the most common gastrointestinal disorder, affecting 35 million Americans. As a chronic disorder affecting the colon, IBS is diagnosed based on the symptoms experienced by the patient. IBS is classified as a functional gastrointestinal disorder, meaning that it is apparently of spontaneous origin because the biological mechanism which leads to the diseased state is unknown. First documented in the Rocky Mountain Medical Journal in 1950, research recognizes that painful cramping, nausea, chronic diarrhea or constipation. IBS commonly leads to stomach pain, gassiness, bloating, constipation, diarrhea or both.
How Can
Cannabis Help?
Although the exact cause of IBS remains unknown, it is known that, like many physiological processes, the gastrointestinal tract is controlled by the body’s endocannabinoid system. Experts report that the colon muscle of an IBS sufferer is overly sensitive, causing it to spasm after even the most mild stimulation because of a disruption in the communication pathway between the brain and the gastrointestinal tract. Cannabis provides significant medical efficacy in the treatment of IBS because it is made up of hundreds of organic chemical compounds, known as cannabinoids, which are able to bind to the same receptors in the brain as the body’s own gastrointestinal tract regulating endocannabinoids. Medical cannabis is able to fill in the missing pieces of the homeostasis puzzle when the body fails to regulate its own endocannabinoid production.

The most abundant psychoactive cannabinoid known for producing the feeling of being high, THC, is also known for being an effective reliever of pain and nausea, which are two of the most common symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. CBD, the most abundant non-psychoactive cannabinoid works is a powerful anti-spasmodic that also produces calming effects in patients. Experts report that, in the treatment of IBS and many other conditions, the medical efficacy of each individual cannabinoid found in medical cannabis increases dramatically when they work together in a process known as the entourage effect. For example, CBC works synergistically with THC to increase the amount of the gastrointestinal regulating endocannabinoid, anandamide, that is in the body at any given time. More anandamide in the system equates to reduced pain because it prevents excessive spasms in the gut wall.
What Does The
Research Say?
The effectiveness of cannabis and its derivatives for treating IBS and other gastrointestinal disorders has been known for centuries. Many of those suffering from IBS report that symptoms of the condition, like abdominal pain, nausea, cramping and irregularity of bowel movements are more manageable or even alleviated with the use of medical cannabis. The experiences reported by IBS patients shows that medical cannabis is ideal for broad-spectrum relief, and is often an effective treatment even when the condition has been non-responsive to more commonly prescribed treatment options.

Medical research demonstrates that this interaction between medical cannabis and the colon can result in improved motility, calmed spasms, and pain relief. Recent research has shown that endogenous cannabinoids play crucial neuromodulatory roles in controlling the operation of the gastrointestinal system, and can control gastrointestinal motility and inflammation. A study conducted in Italy in 2003 found that THC, the most common cannabinoid known for its strong psychoactive properties, reduced intestinal motility, thereby alleviating colonic spasms and abdominal pain.
Links To
Research
Cannabinoids for gastrointestinal diseases: potential therapeutic applications.
READ STUDY
Selective inhibition of FAAH produces antidiarrheal and antinociceptive effect mediated by endocannabinoids and cannabinoid-like fatty acid amides.
READ STUDY
Acute activation of cannabinoid receptors by anandamide reduces gastrointestinal motility and improves postprandial glycemia in mice.
READ STUDY
Clinical endocannabinoid deficiency (CECD): can this concept explain therapeutic benefits of cannabis in migraine, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome and other treatment-resistant conditions?
READ STUDY
While research has shown cannabis to be effective in providing palliative and therapeutic effects for some patients, always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition and before starting any new treatment utilizing medical cannabis or discontinuing an existing treatment. The content on this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Interesting Fact
Medical cannabis not only helps to relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, like pain and nausea, but it strengthens the body’s own gastrointestinal regulating abilities.
QUOTE=Murkydreams;977738]Well, that's the thing. IBS isn't an inflammatory condition. It can cause inflammation, but it's not the primary way the condition manifests itself. I believe it is more of a spastic condition. My bowels are erratic and sensitive, but I don't have the extreme pain or bleeding that some of you guys can have...

So, I was just wondering what type of overlap there may be in treating IBS and IBD/crohns. I'm not sure what attributes to look for in a strain...[/QUOTE]
 
I need at least one post to view the hidden forum so herexit is.

We've just started using MM to treat our sons crohns and he's currently at a 4:1 cbd to thc ratio, when he gets out of school next week we'll be switching to 1:1 and let him get used to it during the summer.
 
Does anyone have direct information about cannabis essential oil? I'm not ready for medical marijuana, refuse to smoke or the like, and was wondering if EO could provide relief for joint pain. I have just about every EO out there, love them, feeling it may be time to try the cannabis.
 
Wow so much good information. A little background behind my story; I had a severe back injury a couple months ago and my doctor prescribed a plethora of prescription meds and although they helped, the mental effects were too much to handle. This began my search for alternatives and what I stumbled upon was CBD. I found a brand called Quanta that sells CBD in vape form and ever since using CBD my pain has been substantially reduced without the hazy side effects. If anyone is in a similar situation and sees this post I highly recommend just giving it a try!
 
I take CBD gummies made by a company called Iris Gummies, and they have helped me a lot.

I weighed 103 pounds in January of 2009 (thanks, belly!) and through smoking weed managed to get my weight up to 130 pounds by June of 2009.

I don't recommend smoking weed in jurisdictions where it is still illegal, primarily because jail is bad for your health (or so I've heard).

I believe that vaping and edibles are much better for your body, because weed still produces particulate matter, which is terrible for your lungs.

However, if your only choices are kicking the bucket now or kicking the bucket later, I'm not here to judge you if you want to do it later!
 
Completely agree! When, where and what kind of cannabis your using will determine your hi.
I find that cannabis really helps me deal with my condition physically and mentally.
 
Hi, here's my take on canna:

I have been using cannabis regularly since 1968. I have been using it medicinally in California for the last ten years. My use has increased dramatically in the last six years, especially ingesting and vaporizing, because I find it to be so effective at providing symptom relief and otherwise assisting in my never ending battle against Crohns and other various medical disorders associated with Crohns (insomnia, loss of appetite, nausea, depression, anxiety, etc).

I am also an experienced grower and am happy to answer any inquiries regarding cannabis.

I ingest canna oil, usually in chocolate bars, at a clip of about 150 - 200 mg per day, usually at night as it helps with sleep and pain. Ingesting also tends to "smooth out" gut bloating and discomfort.

Nearly all my canna is THC dominant, and for medicinal purposes I prefer the indica strains (better for sleep, slower acting, longer acting). I smoke about four large, doobers per day, from powerful strains I have grown. Smoking delivers instant relief and for me excites peristaltic movement, I always take a doob to the john when I go.

Note: I do NOT have much experience with CBD dominant canna, although I intend to explore more in the near future.

I have ingested as much as 360 mg of THC dominant oil at one time in capsule form. It's too much, and wasteful, better three 120 mg caps for two more night's sleep. To be clear, 360 mg was NOT an overdose for me, but I would never do that much again for reasons stated. For someone else, esp first time or inexperienced user, this could be an "overdose" level (though still not dangerous). My body has built up significant tolerance to the psychoactive effects.

I vaporize daily as well whenever I want to relax, or maybe try for a nap. I will vape at night before I retire to help me sleep. Vaping is very easy on the lungs, but you can cough yourself silly if you overdo it. Vaping is more economical than smoking buds, it goes further.

But nothing replaces smoking the bud for me. And, for those worrying about all the nasty effects on the lungs, the studies don't support it. In fact, there is evidence that smoking high quality weed provides a prophylactic effect on the lungs, protecting tissue such that no increase in lung cancer compared to non smoker. You can look it up. They know, of course, that canna kills certain tumors.

I do NOT inform my doctors that I use canna. Depending on where you live, and how paranoid your doctor is, this might result in discontinuation of prescription pain killers, especially opioid based, which is too bad, because the combination works wonders on pain. I use perhaps 5 mg per day Norco for pain. More than that makes me nauseous. Luckily, canna is a WORLD CLASS anti nausea aid. Also world class expectorant, sleep aid, appetite aid, etc. However, by itself, imo, weed is overrated as a straight pain killer. It helps, but it isn't in the class of norco or morphine by any means.

I do not drink alcohol.

Also, to be clear, using large amounts of THC daily as I do will leave you physically addicted to THC and it can take a long time to completely wean your body of the "need" if you were to cut off your intake suddenly. You will experience withdrawal symptoms, though relatively mild compared to hard drug withdrawals, like heroin, alcohol, etc.

Much of the "paranoia" associated with canna is associated with sativa strains, as has been mentioned. They involve more of a "head high" and come on faster than indicas, which are sometimes described as effecting the "body" more (i.e., blunt pain, make sleepy, etc.).

I also believe a lot of the paranoia is based on the stigma and legal status in one's locality. Smoking/using in an illegal state is different and brings its own paranoia. It's totally different where it's legal and you have nothing to fear or hide. I smoke openly in legal smoking areas outdoors pretty much whenever I want, wherever I go. Never thought I'd live to see the day.

Stay well!
 
My GI is recommending Imuran for moderate inflammation and now an ulceration of my terminal ileum. Really would like to stay more natural and avoid chemicals and cancer causing drugs. What is the best way to get the benefits of cannabis to the terminal ileum? THC oil in foods? I have never tried marijuana and apprehensive as well. Thanks much!
I don't think a suppository is gonna get it to where you need it, terminal ileum, gotta come from the other side - or at least I do.

I have classic Crohns, concentrated at terminal ileum, for last ten years. I eat, food tries to fit through a straw where small meets large. Result, pain, more inflammation. Rinse repeat. My problem is on the small side of the ileum, nothing unusual as Crohns primarily effects the small.

Ingesting canna oil (my oil is THC dominant, which has known/studied positive, calming effects on gut when ingested) is something I do daily, religiously, and I have found it very beneficial. I have tried and rejected all the usual autoimmune therapy drugs for all the usual reasons. I have stared down the scalpel twice, including last year at this time.

I ingest the oil (THC dominant) primarily from club bought infused dark chocolate bars, in 70 mg squares, usually one or two bars a day, usually at night. Ingesting requires about an hour to really take hold. Chocolate also brings help/relief to the gut so the combo is great.

I have also done the oil in capsules in various doses. If given the choice I usually opt for the indica derived oils. If you ingest it, esp on an empty stomach, it will get to the ileum. Although I can't prove this, I would expect you would feel significant head/high effects only if the oil is absorbed through the small, like any other nutrient. So, absorption through small, and speed of transit could be a factor in how much ultimately reaches ileum. For me, I want and get both, head/high effects and deposit/relief at ileum.

For past year I have changed course and rejected autoimmune therapy/drugs in favor of AMAT treatment which I'm looking to start asap. Meanwhile, among other things, I credit daily ingesting of THC/canna oil for allowing me to be able to carry on without the pentasa, 6MP, humira, etc.

Best part, no side effects.
 
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