IBS and inflammatory bowel disease
Digestive conditions with pain and disrupted bowel function. Symptom relief may help; disease activity does not appear to change.
What the evidence says
NASEM did not reach a positive conclusion. Trials suggest symptomatic benefit without change in objective disease activity.
Trials in Crohn's disease have generally shown symptomatic improvement without corresponding improvement in objective markers of inflammation or endoscopic disease activity. People feel better; the disease does not measurably improve.
That distinction matters clinically. Feeling better while inflammation continues unchecked can delay treatment that would prevent damage.
Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome is a particular hazard in this group, because its symptoms overlap with the underlying condition and heavy users may attribute worsening vomiting to a flare.
What to ask for
This is a starting point, not a prescription. Take it to a licensed dispensary and ask to see the batch certificate of analysis.
- Suggested ratio
- Balanced, low dose
- Starting THC dose
- 2.5 mg
- Commonly chosen profile
- Balanced hybrid
- Time of day
- either
Cannabinoids
- THC
The main intoxicating compound in cannabis. It drives most of what people mean by "high," and it is also the cannabinoid behind most documented therapeutic effects.
- CBD
Non-intoxicating. The only cannabis-derived compound with an FDA-approved medicine behind it, and the cannabinoid most often used to soften THC.
Terpenes to look for
Commonly present in products people choose for this. Terpene effect claims are preclinical — this is a way to find a product again, not a promise about how it will feel.
- Beta-caryophyllene
Peppery, woody, spicy
- Myrcene
Earthy, musky, faintly sweet
Formats
Get a personalised starting point
Answer four questions and we will adjust the dose for your experience level and find licensed dispensaries near you.
Get guidanceTalk to a doctor if
- • You have blood in your stool
- • You have IBD — do not reduce prescribed treatment
- • You have unexplained weight loss or fever
Related conditions
- Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomitingNausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. One of three indications with substantial evidence, and the basis for two FDA-approved medicines.
- Appetite loss with HIV/AIDSLoss of appetite and weight in HIV/AIDS. Limited evidence, and the basis for one of dronabinol's FDA indications.
- Nausea (general)Nausea not caused by chemotherapy. The strong evidence is specific to chemotherapy — this is weaker ground.