Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory colonic pathology that results in inflammation and ulceration of the large bowel and its manifestations include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fatigue. Symptoms in UC can occasionally pose the wrath of the patient and may be rather difficult to handle during a relapse. Nonsteroidal anti-rheumatic drugs and immunosuppressants are common conventional therapies with their drawbacks and less than optimal efficacy. Medical marijuana has come into focus in the recent past for its use to potentially assist in the treatment of UC.  

Some studies have said that cannabis has anti-inflammatory properties, and analgesic effects, and enhances the appetite of UC patients. Medical marijuana is not a cure, but it could provide a highly compatible form of treatment. A more detailed description of how medical marijuana supports UC symptoms and the information you should be aware of is discussed in this article. 

How Medical Marijuana Can Help Manage UC Symptoms 

1. Reducing Inflammation : In ulcerative colitis, mainly the colon is inflamed and that is how one gets most of those widespread symptoms such as abdominal ache and frequent defecation. The human body has the endocannabinoid system which maintains several functions such as immune and inflammation. THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD (Cannabidiol), and other cannabinoids within medical marijuana also can interact with the ECS and bring down inflammation within the gut. Some of the research done points to the possibility that cannabis usage could reduce inflammation levels which in turn means fewer flare-ups. In essence, medical marijuana reaches the inflammation amounts while offering comfort to the pains of ulcerative colitis. 

2. Pain and Cramping Relief  : Due to UC, many of those affected suffer from constant pain and cramping, especially during a flare. Marijuana and in particular THC is an effective pain reliever so medical marijuana can effectively be used to treat pain. THC binds to the receptors in the brain to affect the perception of pain making it relatable to those people with continual pain. A survey also revealed that the UC patients who use cannabis were able to testify that, the pain is greatly reduced and the cramps reduced too. Some can benefit from this since it reduces the unbearable pains which are characteristic of flare-ups. In addition, the anxiety-reducing effects of cannabis can aid in decreasing convulsions of the muscles of the intestine and thus lessen both pain and discomfort. 

3. Appetite Stimulation and Nausea Relief : Anorexia is another problem situations that patients face, including that those with UC experience it most often in periods of the disease activity. THC is popular for its anti-inflammatory properties, but something else that is rather famous about it is the fact that it increases appetite known as the munchies phenomenon. For those patients with UC who have low-calorie intake due to nausea, or poor appetite, medical Marijuana can help increase food intake and better their nutritional requirements. Cannabis also can help fight nausea, the symptoms of which may be caused by disease, its treatment, or other medications. From these effects alone, medical marijuana will prevent UC patients from suffering from weight loss, and ultimately malnutrition. 

There is no way to stop ulcerative colitis (UC) from happening or to know for sure what will make it occur, but there are things you can do that might help lessen your risk or help control your UC. As much as the exact cause of UC has not been established, some of the known predisposing factors include genetic and immune dysfunction.  

Smoking cessation is important as smoking may cause UC or aggravate UC symptoms. They also ensure that a person works out regularly and takes plenty of water as well as other fluids. Finally, it is helpful to pair with a healthcare provider committed to watching an individual’s symptoms and modifying treatments to avoid worsening episodes. 

Considerations and Usage Guidelines 

1. Consulting with a Healthcare Provider  : However, if you are to switch to medical marijuana, you need to seek advice from a healthcare provider, particularly when you are taking medication for UC. Your doctor if aware of how cannabis works, will help you identify the most appropriate strain/ dosage that will treat your specific aches. They will also assist in the regular check for any form or kind of interaction with other drugs in use. While in some parts of the world, cannabis is still prohibited or only available with a prescription, knowing legal status is equally crucial. 

2.Choosing the Right Strain  : There are many types of cannabis and varying concentrations of THC to CBD in some of these may influence how they function. THC-potent varieties are most effective in managing pain and increasing appetite, while varieties high in CBD have anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic effects but do not cause stoned feelings. Thus, to patients suffering from UC, probably the best ratio of THC and CBD would be most beneficial. One should try leveraging legal dispensary services to enjoy different strains although under the prescription of a doctor from time to time. 

3. Form and Dosage : Medical marijuana is dispensed in different products like edible products, liquids, concentrates, and vaporized cannabis products. Depending on its form, a medicine will work faster or slower. For instance, tinctures or oils, administered under the tongue provide quicker relief than edibles which take a longer time to be processed in the system. When starting with medical marijuana, it is advisable to start with a small amount of the substance increasing it over time. This reduces the likelihood of having side effects such as dizziness or paranoia mostly when using cannabis for the first time. 

Conclusion 

Over-the-counter drugs for ulcerative colitis often do not work, or come with unwanted side effects, yet medical marijuana is fast proving efficient in the treatment of this and other conditions. This is because cannabis has been known to have properties that would help to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, increase appetite, and reduce nausea which would if anything improve the quality of life for UC sufferers. But one should use cannabis wisely—talk to the doctor, select the proper type, and try a small amount at first. With the right supervision, marijuana can be of great medical use to UC patients, but should not be viewed as a cure.