The EVOLUTION Magazine October 2024 | Page 25

“ An apple a day keeps the doctor away ” isn ’ t just a 19th-century wives ’ tale . The average American diet contains far less than the recommended 25-30 grams of dietary fiber , often resulting in serious digestive problems . A diet rich in high-fiber fruits and vegetables can help immensely .
Essential oil of peppermint ( a drop or two drunk in a glass of water ) provides relief for an irritable bowel , including inflammation and nausea ( even headaches !). A 2008 randomized controlled trial determined that “ Fiber … and peppermint oil were all more effective than placebo in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome .” 4
Cannabis and IBD
The “ enteric nervous system ” is comprised of 100 million neurons located along the digestive tract . CB1 and CB2 receptors are abundant in these enteric neurons . Endocannabinoids and their receptors play vital roles in the way the body acquires and uses energy through the GI tract . The profusion of these CB1 and CB2 receptors is why cannabis is often effective in the treatment of many GI tract disorders ( not just IBD ), from cramping , diarrhea , gut pain , and inflammatory conditions . Several studies have shown that cannabis ( consumed orally or even smoked or vaped ) can be effective in alleviating common IBD symptoms .
Cannabis hasn ’ t been shown to be a cure for IBD , but it can and often does provide considerable “ therapeutic benefit .” 5 Even CBD alone has shown great promise , especially in treating inflammation .
References :
1 .
https :// bit . ly / 3B1CU7l
2 .
https :// www . maha . vote /
3 .
https :// bit . ly / 4d4wVw3
4 .
https :// bit . ly / 3XhoxTU
5 .
https :// bit . ly / 3XhpifI
Peter Kershaw is a medical cannabis consultant . Contact him at pkershaw . email @ gmail . com As with all writers within these pages , if you ’ ve benefited from Peter ’ s articles , please let him and all writers know . They appreciate your thoughts .
Notice : The information contained herein is not intended as medical advice , diagnosis , or treatment , but rather a sharing of knowledge and information based on research and experience . The content is for general informational purposes only . As always , check with your doctor first .
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