Laxatives: Do They Flush Weed Out?

There is a lot of anecdotal evidence that suggests smoking weed can make you need to defecate. However, there is little scientific research to support this claim. While some sources suggest that the THC in weed can help relax your bowels, others suggest that it can slow down the speed at which matter passes through the intestines. Ultimately, the effect of weed on your bowel movements will depend on the cannabinoids you are consuming.

THC's effect on the parasympathetic nervous system

The effects of THC on the parasympathetic nervous system are complex and multifaceted. THC is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, and it has a range of effects on the human body, including the parasympathetic nervous system.

THC interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological functions. The ECS consists of cannabinoid receptors, endogenous cannabinoids (also known as endocannabinoids), and enzymes that synthesise and degrade endocannabinoids. The two primary cannabinoid receptors are CB1 and CB2, and they are found throughout the body, including in the brain and the parasympathetic nervous system.

When THC enters the body, it binds to these cannabinoid receptors, particularly CB1 receptors, and this interaction leads to a range of physiological effects. In terms of the parasympathetic nervous system, THC has been found to have both stimulating and inhibitory effects, depending on the dosage and other factors.

At lower doses, THC can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, leading to increased heart rate, enhanced sympathetic tone, and elevated catecholamine levels. This stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system can result in what is known as a hyperadrenergic state, which has been associated with certain cardiovascular events such as arrhythmias and endothelial damage.

However, at higher doses, THC appears to have an inhibitory effect on the parasympathetic nervous system, leading to bradycardia (slow heart rate), hypotension (low blood pressure), and reduced noradrenaline concentrations. This suggests that THC may stimulate parasympathetic activity at higher doses, resulting in a decrease in heart rate and blood pressure.

The biphasic nature of THC's effects on the parasympathetic nervous system is likely due to its impact on different types of cannabinoid receptors and the complex signalling pathways that they trigger. For example, CB1 receptor activation has been linked to increased heart rate and blood pressure, while CB2 receptor activation is associated with reduced noradrenaline concentrations and parasympathetic stimulation.

Additionally, tolerance to the cardiovascular effects of THC develops rapidly and is lost quickly when THC intake is stopped. This highlights the dynamic and complex nature of THC's interaction with the parasympathetic nervous system.

In conclusion, THC's effects on the parasympathetic nervous system are multifaceted and depend on various factors such as dosage, individual physiology, and the presence of other compounds in cannabis. While THC can have both stimulating and inhibitory effects, more research is needed to fully understand the underlying mechanisms and how they contribute to the overall impact of THC on the parasympathetic nervous system.

The gut's microbiome and the endocannabinoid system

The endocannabinoid system, with its receptors and ligands, is present in the gut epithelium and enteroendocrine cells, and is able to modulate brain functions, both indirectly through circulating gut-derived factors and directly through the vagus nerve. The gut endocannabinoid system also regulates gut motility, permeability, and inflammatory responses. Furthermore, microbiota composition has been shown to influence the activity of the endocannabinoid system.

Cannabis as a treatment for constipation

Constipation is a common condition characterised by infrequent bowel movements that are difficult to pass. While usually not serious, constipation can be very uncomfortable and even painful. It is often caused by a low-fibre diet, lack of physical activity, insufficient water intake, or delaying going to the bathroom. It can also be a side effect of certain medications or a symptom of more serious illnesses.

One of the first-line treatments for constipation is the use of laxatives, which are often available over the counter. People spend hundreds of millions of dollars on laxatives each year. However, cannabis has also been used to treat constipation for thousands of years, with one of the first examples being in China around 2700 BCE.

Cannabis is known to slow gastric motility, or the speed at which food passes through the gastrointestinal (GI) system. This can contribute to constipation by slowing down the movement of waste through the colon. However, research suggests that cannabis use is associated with a decreased likelihood of experiencing constipation. A 2019 study found that people who recently used cannabis had a 30% lower chance of constipation compared to non-users or past users.

The reason for this paradoxical finding is not yet fully understood. One theory is that less-studied active ingredients in cannabis may improve motility through the colon, counteracting the anti-motility effects of well-known cannabinoids like THC. Another possibility is that the hundreds of other active ingredients and cannabinoids in cannabis may have pro-motility effects on non-cannabinoid receptors that have yet to be discovered.

Benefits and Drawbacks for Digestive Health

In addition to its potential benefits for constipation, cannabis has been used to treat various GI conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. It can provide pain relief and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. However, long-term cannabis use can also have negative impacts on digestive health. For example, cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is a rare condition characterised by severe vomiting, nausea, and abdominal pain after cannabis use—the very symptoms it is sometimes used to treat.

Treatment Options for Constipation

While cannabis may provide some relief from constipation, it is not considered a first-line treatment approach. Instead, less controversial methods are typically recommended, such as increasing fibre and water intake, getting regular physical activity, and trying to have a bowel movement at the same time every day. Over-the-counter products like stool softeners, laxatives, enemas, or fibre supplements can also be effective. For more severe cases of constipation, prescription medications, surgery, or biofeedback therapy may be necessary.

Cannabis as a treatment for diarrhoea

Diarrhoea is a common condition characterised by loose or liquid bowel movements, occurring at least three times a day. While it often resolves on its own and may seem harmless, diarrhoea can be deadly, causing approximately 3.5 million deaths annually worldwide. The primary danger of diarrhoea is dehydration, as the body loses fluids and electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, and chloride. In addition to dehydration, diarrhoea can also lead to malnutrition due to the impaired absorption of nutrients.

Causes of Diarrhoea

Diarrhoea has various causes, including bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections, food intolerances, and certain medications. It is also associated with underlying conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis.

Cannabis as a Treatment Option

Cannabis has been suggested as a potential treatment for diarrhoea. While research is limited, there is some evidence to support its effectiveness. Here are the key points regarding the use of cannabis for treating diarrhoea:

• Reduction of Inflammation: Cannabinoids, particularly THC, exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. This helps combat the inflammation associated with gastrointestinal disorders and can be particularly beneficial in inflammatory bowel diseases.
• Relaxation of Intestinal Muscles: Cannabinoids relax the contractions of the smooth muscles in the intestines, which aids in reducing cramping and spasms that are common in diarrhoea.
• Delayed Gastric Emptying: Cannabinoid receptor agonists delay gastric emptying, which means food stays in the stomach for a longer period, allowing for better nutrient absorption and potentially reducing the frequency of bowel movements.
• Improved Gastrointestinal Motility: Research indicates that both internal and external cannabinoids have a regulatory effect on gastrointestinal motility, helping to normalise bowel movements.
• Appetite Boost: Cannabis is known to stimulate appetite, which can be beneficial for individuals who struggle to eat due to nausea or poor appetite caused by diarrhoea.
• Pain Relief: Cannabis has analgesic properties, which can help alleviate abdominal pain and discomfort associated with diarrhoea.
• Anxiety and Depression Relief: Certain cannabis strains can help with anxiety and depression, which may be beneficial for individuals experiencing emotional distress due to diarrhoea.

Best Strains for Diarrhoea

When using cannabis to treat diarrhoea, it is essential to choose strains that specifically target the symptoms you are experiencing. Here are some recommended strains for addressing diarrhoea and its associated symptoms:

• Abdominal Pain and Cramping: Honey Bananas (hybrid), Black Diesel (Sativa), Cookies Kush (Indica), Mazar I Sharif (Indica), King's Kush (Indica), Orange Haze (hybrid), Allen Wrench (Sativa), Purple Candy (hybrid).
• Depression and Anxiety: Sour Tangie (Sativa), Caramelicious (hybrid).

Methods of Administration

The method of administering cannabis for diarrhoea treatment can vary, and each method has its benefits and drawbacks. Smoking or vaporising cannabis may provide immediate relief, while edibles or oils may take longer to take effect and could potentially cause side effects. It is essential to work with a healthcare professional or a cannabis doctor to determine the best treatment regimen for your specific needs.

Cannabis and the brain-gut axis

Cannabis has been used for thousands of years to treat digestive issues, including constipation, stomach pain, and bowel problems. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a widely distributed transmitter system that controls gut functions peripherally and centrally. It is an important physiologic regulator of gastrointestinal motility. The ECS is involved in the control of nausea and vomiting and visceral sensation. The ECS is also involved centrally in the manifestation of stress, and endocannabinoid signaling reduces the activity of hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal pathways via actions in specific brain regions—notably the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and hypothalamus.

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