How does medical cannabis help with Lupus?

What is Lupus?

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect any part of the body. It occurs when the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues and organs. Lupus can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:

• Fatigue
• Pain
• Swollen joints
• Rashes
• Fever
• Hair loss
• Mouth ulcers
• Kidney problems
• Heart problems
• Lung problems
• Neurological problems
• Blood disorders

How does medical cannabis help with Lupus?

There is a growing body of evidence that suggests that medical cannabis can be an effective treatment for lupus. Medical cannabis contains a number of compounds called cannabinoids, which have a variety of therapeutic effects. Some of the most important cannabinoids for lupus include:

• THC: THC is the compound that produces the “high” associated with cannabis use. It also has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
• CBD: CBD does not produce a “high.” It has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and neuroprotective effects.

Here are some of the ways that medical cannabis can help with Lupus:

• Reduce pain: Medical cannabis can reduce pain by activating the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a network of receptors and enzymes that plays a role in pain perception. When cannabinoids bind to the ECS receptors, they can reduce pain signals.
• Reduce inflammation: Medical cannabis can reduce inflammation by blocking the production of inflammatory cytokines. Inflammation is a major factor in lupus, and reducing inflammation can help to improve symptoms.
• Improve fatigue: Medical cannabis can improve fatigue by increasing energy levels and reducing pain. Fatigue is a common symptom of lupus, and improving fatigue can help to improve quality of life.
• Reduce flares: Medical cannabis can help to reduce the frequency and severity of flares. Flares are periods of time when lupus symptoms worsen. Reducing flares can help to improve quality of life and reduce the risk of complications.
• Improve mood: Medical cannabis can improve mood by reducing anxiety and depression. Anxiety and depression are common symptoms of lupus, and improving mood can help to improve quality of life.
• Slow the progression of the disease: Medical cannabis may help to slow the progression of lupus by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. Inflammation and oxidative stress can damage tissues and organs, and slowing the progression of the disease can help to improve quality of life and reduce the risk of complications.

If you are considering using medical cannabis to treat lupus, it is important to talk to your doctor first. They can help you determine if cannabis is right for you and can recommend a dosage and form of cannabis that is safe and effective.