Crohn’s Disease

Definition
Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that leads to inflammation in different areas of the digestive tract. Crohn’s disease can spread deep into the layers of affected bowel tissues and lead to life-threatening complications if it goes without medical attention.¹

Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of Crohn’s disease may vary greatly from individual to individual as they can range from mild to severe. They can develop gradually, but it can also appear immediately. When Crohn’s disease is active, the main symptoms may be:¹

• Abdominal pain and cramps
• Fatigue
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Sores in the mouth
• Blood in stool
• Reduced appetite and unintended weight loss
• Pain or drainage near or around the anus

Cause
Up to this date, the exact cause of Crohn’s disease is not yet known. However, factors that can play a role in the development of Crohn’s disease are:¹

• Immune system

Crohn’s disease can be caused by a virus or bacterium. When the immune system of a person fights off the foreign intruders, an abnormal immune response results in the immune system attacking the cells in the digestive tract too.

• Genetics

To have family members with the disease may increase the risk

Preclinical evidence proposes that the cannabinoids THC, CBD, THCV, and CBG may be therapeutic in the treatment of Crohn’s disease, as cannabinoids may possess anti-inflammatory properties.²
In a recent review article, it has been suggested that symptoms connected to IBD like pain, loss of appetite, and diarrhea can be improved by exogenous cannabis and related cannabinoids.³

Note: If you have any further information relevant to the connection between Crohn’s disease and cannabinoids, or find any of the information inaccurate, outdated or incomplete please contact us here.