Share This Article
The discourse surrounding medical cannabis is blossoming, unveiling its potential across a myriad of health conditions. Among these, the application of cannabis for asthma treatment stands as a compelling yet counterintuitive narrative. This article aims to delve into the burgeoning evidence on the therapeutic implications of cannabis, particularly its constituents THC and CBD, in alleviating asthma symptoms. By exploring key studies, patient testimonies, and the evolving legal landscape, we aim to furnish a nuanced understanding of this unconventional therapy.
Asthma – An Overview
Asthma is a prevalent condition that significantly impairs an individual’s quality of life. In the UK alone, over 12% of the population, equating to 8 million individuals, have been diagnosed with asthma (British Lung Foundation). The impact of this condition extends beyond the physical symptoms, affecting academic achievements, work, and even mental health. Current treatment modalities, while effective to a degree, still leave many sufferers with unmet needs, underscoring the necessity for alternative therapeutic avenues.
The Cannabis Conundrum
The legal landscape surrounding medical cannabis in the UK and across Europe has seen significant evolution. In the UK, medical cannabis was legalised in November 2018, permitting specialist doctors to prescribe cannabis-based products for medicinal use (MedicPro London). Various European countries, including the Netherlands, Poland, and Portugal, have also established medical cannabis legislation, indicating a broader acceptance and regulatory framework across the continent (DDW Online). However, the accessibility remains limited, with only a few NHS prescriptions issued to date, highlighting a gap between policy and practise (PMC).
Cannabis for Asthma Treatment – THC and the Airways
During an asthma attack, the airways in the lungs constrict, leading to shortness of breath and a painful tightness in the chest. Remarkably, the THC in medicinal cannabis acts as an effective bronchodilator, relaxing and widening these airways to allow more oxygen to flow freely. While the precise mechanism remains under investigation, it is believed that the lungs’ cannabinoid receptors react favourably to THC. Dr. Donald Tashkin’s seminal study, first published in 1975, lends sound medical evidence to the use of medical cannabis for people living with asthma. This study demonstrated that participants who were administered medical cannabis experienced near-immediate relief from airway constriction, outlasting the effects of a typical asthma inhaler.
CBD – An Emerging Hope
Recent studies, albeit conducted on animal models, have also spotlighted CBD as a potential treatment for asthma. Research reveals that CBD can effectively minimise the inflammation experienced by people with asthma, a promising insight given that inflammation is a hallmark of asthma. Specifically, CBD treatment led to a reduction in certain cytokines, which are indicative of inflammation. This evidence aligns with the Ribero study, showcasing CBD’s potent immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties. Although promising, it’s pertinent to note that more human-centric research is needed to elucidate CBD’s effects on asthma fully.
Strains and Forms: Tailoring Cannabis Therapy
Certain strains of cannabis, such as Royal Medic or Dance World by Royal Queen Seeds, have shown promise in alleviating asthma symptoms, particularly in medicinal cannabis programmes in the Netherlands. The form in which cannabis is consumed, whether vaped, smoked, or ingested in pill form, may also impact its efficacy in managing asthma symptoms.
The Road Ahead with Medical Cannabis for Asthma Treatment
The road towards fully understanding and integrating medical cannabis into asthma care is winding. With the legal landscape evolving and more countries embracing the medicinal value of cannabis, the horizon looks promising for further research and broader discussions. As always, individuals are encouraged to conduct thorough research and consult specialist cannabis doctors before considering medical cannabis for asthma.
The exploration of medical cannabis for asthma treatment unveils a realm of potential. By bridging the gaps between policy, practise, and public awareness, a well-informed, balanced discourse can propel us towards better patient outcomes and a deeper understanding of cannabis’s medicinal landscape.
