CBD and Ulcerative Colitis: Can Cannabis Help with Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

Author: Lucie Garabasova 

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that significantly affects the quality of life. Abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, fatigue, and psychological exhaustion become the daily reality of patients. Although modern medicine offers a wide range of treatment options, not everyone responds well to them. Many people therefore seek natural ways to alleviate their problems - and this is where the story of cannabidiol, known as CBD, begins.

One of the patients who decided to try cannabis products is Mrs. Iva. She has been struggling with not only rheumatoid arthritis for a long time, but also ulcerative colitis. Thanks to cannabis, especially CBD capsules and Edestin, she managed to significantly improve her quality of life. But before we get to her inspiring experience, let's talk more about ulcerative colitis itself. 

What is ulcerative colitis and how does it manifest itself?

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks its own intestinal mucosa. This leads to inflammation, ulcers and tissue damage, especially in the colon and rectum. 

The most common symptoms: 

• recurrent or long-term diarrhea, often with blood and mucus, 
• abdominal pain, especially in the lower left abdomen,
• urgency to defecate even without having to do so (tenesma),
• fatigue, exhaustion, weight loss,
• increased temperature or fever during exacerbations.

The disease manifests itself differently in everyone - for some it may be a mild course with occasional difficulties, while others face severe inflammation and repeated hospitalizations.

How is ulcerative colitis diagnosed?

Diagnosis begins with a detailed history and physical examination. This is followed by blood tests that may show signs of inflammation or anemia. Colonoscopy is necessary - an examination of the colon with a camera, which allows not only to inspect the intestinal wall, but also to take samples for histology.

Some patients also undergo imaging methods (ultrasound, CT, MRI) or stool tests for the presence of inflammatory markers (e.g. calprotectin).

Treatment of ulcerative colitis

The goal of treatment is to bring the disease into a dormant phase (remission) and maintain it as long as possible. This is achieved by: 

• Aminosalicylates – basic anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g. mesalazine),
• Corticosteroids – used in acute flare-ups of the disease,
• Immunosuppressants and biological therapy – for patients with a more severe course or when basic drugs are ineffective,
• Surgical treatment – ​​in extreme cases (e.g. intestinal perforation, cancer) it is necessary to remove the affected part of the intestine.

In addition to classical treatment, diet, lifestyle, psychological well-being and an individual approach also play an important role.

CBD as a support for the treatment of ulcerative colitis

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in natural options for supporting the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a substance from the cannabis plant that does not have psychoactive effects, but has a number of proven benefits – especially anti-inflammatory and analgesic.

Studies and patient experiences suggest that CBD can help:

• reduce intestinal inflammation,
• suppress pain and cramps,
• support mucosal healing,
• calm the body and mind,
• strengthen regeneration and immunity. 

The advantage is that CBD can be used long-term, in various forms – for example, capsules, oil, tea or dietary supplements.

How can CBD help with ulcerative colitis?

CBD affects the so-called endocannabinoid system in the body, which plays an important role in regulating inflammation, pain, mood and immunity. In patients with ulcerative colitis, CBD can: 

• reduce inflammatory activity in the intestines,
• help with abdominal or joint pain,
• sooth irritated mucous membranes,
• support better regeneration,
• improve sleep and overall quality of life. 

CBD does not replace conventional treatment, but can gently supplement it and help alleviate some of the unpleasant symptoms of the disease. 

True story: Iva and her journey to cannabis

Ms. Iva Pospíšilová shared her personal experience with CBD and ulcerative colitis with us: 

“Since childhood, I have been treated for chronic rheumatoid arthritis, which, in addition to the joints, also affected the eyes and later the colon in the form of ulcerative colitis. For all these problems, I take stable medications that suppress inflammation and pain. Over the years, the underlying disease has been associated with a number of other health problems. Various painful conditions, especially headaches. Impaired immune function increasingly reflected in slowed healing and regeneration. 

About a year and a half ago, I started trying cannabis products. For painful conditions, CBD capsules worked best for me. CBD successfully suppressed both headaches and joint and cervical spine pain. The symptoms of ulcerative colitis also eased. However, I was not allowed to exceed a dose of 40 mg of CBD per day. When higher doses activated an autoimmune reaction in me, which rather strengthened the inflammatory disease. My use has therefore stabilized at a dose of 20–40 mg of CBD per day. About six months ago, I started taking Edestin. And other positive health changes have begun to appear. Faster relief of painful conditions, faster healing and regeneration. Headache episodes are also less frequent now. I currently take CBD about 3 times a week at a dose of 20 mg. In addition to CBD and Edestin, there are probably more factors that influence the improvement in health. I also mean the regular use of hemp products such as hemp oil, seeds and protein.” 

Mrs. Ivy’s experience shows that with sensitive dosing and regular use, hemp products can significantly improve the quality of life without burdening the body with adverse effects. 

What do we recommend for ulcerative colitis?

Based on customer feedback and available knowledge, we recommend the following products: 

• CBD capsules (10 or 20 mg) - an ideal form for precise and gentle dosing. The capsules are suitable for people with sensitive digestion, without the need to drip under the tongue.
• Edestin - hemp protein containing all essential amino acids. Supports immunity, regeneration and enzyme production. Very well absorbed.
• Hemp oil - a natural source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in an ideal ratio. Contributes to a healthy intestinal mucosa and overall anti-inflammatory balance.
• Hemp seeds - an excellent source of fiber and protein. They help with digestion and nutrition of intestinal cells.
• Hemp protein - a plant-based alternative to conventional proteins. Easily digestible, does not burden digestion and supplies the body with necessary nutrients. 

What to watch out for?

It is important to listen to your body when suffering from ulcerative colitis. Not everyone is suited to the same dosage, and higher amounts of CBD may, on the contrary, cause an adverse reaction in some individuals. We recommend starting low – for example, at 10 mg per day – and gradually increasing the dose according to the body's reaction. 

CBD is not a substitute for medication, but a suitable supportive agent. For chronic diseases, it is always advisable to consult your doctor about the use of CBD.

Conclusion

Ulcerative colitis is a challenging disease that significantly affects everyday life. However, there are options for natural relief – and CBD can be one of them. If used sensitively, taking into account the individuality of each body, it can support not only pain and inflammation relief, but also overall regeneration, immunity and well-being. 

Hemp products are natural, safe and, when used regularly, bring surprisingly positive results – as confirmed by Mrs. Ivy's experience.