- Guides
What You Should Know Before Using CBD Oil for IBS
- Last updated on 30.11.2021
- Guides
What You Should Know Before Using CBD Oil for IBS
- Last updated on 30.11.2021
Laura Howarth
CBD is often promoted as a miracle cure for all ailments, even if this contradicts all CBD oil marketing guidelines.
CBD is not a medicine and cannot be promoted as such, but that doesn’t stop some sellers from touting their products as a solution for many different health problems.
CBD is an excellent choice for those looking to lead an active and healthy lifestyle. Anecdotally, we know that many users turn to CBD oil for IBS.
If your IBS is linked to stress, for example, then finding ways to manage stress could certainly help control your symptoms.
Read more: CBD Oil for Anxiety
While CBD may not be a recognised treatment for IBS, anyone living with IBS may be curious about how it could help to control symptoms and allow them to enjoy a healthy lifestyle.
In this blog, we’ll explore how CBD may help with IBS and how to choose the right products for your needs.
What's in this Guide?
What Is CBD Oil?
CBD is one of many cannabinoids found in cannabis and hemp plants. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for maintaining homeostasis throughout the body.
Read more: The Endocannabinoid System
CBD oil is extracted from the leaves, stalks and flowers of commercial hemp plants, which is similar to the cannabis plant except for one crucial detail. Commercial hemp plants must contain low levels of THC, which is the psychoactive compound in cannabis.
Since CBD does not contain THC, it does not get users high or alter their mental state in any way. Instead, early research suggests that CBD helps to support healthy function by preventing the breakdown of anandamide.
This is an endocannabinoid produced in the body.
CBD is the subject of many medical studies and trials. As we learn more about the compound, we discover new ways to support health and well-being.
What Is IBS?
IBS stands for irritable bowel syndrome.
It is a common condition that affects the digestive system. It can lead to uncomfortable symptoms such as stomach cramps, bloating and diarrhoea.
Other symptoms include fatigue, backache, incontinence and nausea. While there is no test for IBS, other tests can be used to rule out other conditions. For example, your doctor may carry out blood tests and take a stool sample.
There is no known cause or cure for IBS, but lifestyle changes can help to control flare-ups. IBS is often triggered by stress or particular food and drink items. Lifestyle changes and watching your diet may help to control unwanted symptoms.
This means those living with IBS may have good days and bad days with their symptoms. You might feel better for a while and then have a flare-up of symptoms.
The unpredictability can make life with the condition more stressful.
What Treatments Are Available For IBS?
The most common treatment for IBS is an elimination diet that helps an individual learn about their triggers. Switching to a diet rich in whole foods and cooking meals from scratch can often help sufferers control their symptoms.
It’s also advisable to avoid common triggers such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, beans, onions and dried fruit. This is because these foods are harder to digest and may irritate your digestive tract.
Lifestyle changes can also help to control the symptoms.
For example, IBS flare-ups may be related to stress, so finding ways to relax and get plenty of restful sleep will also help.
Since IBS is thought to be an inflammatory condition, enjoying anti-inflammatory food and drink may also help. For example, green tea and turmeric tea may help to ease symptoms and control inflammation.
How Can CBD Oil Help With IBS?
Using CBD oil for IBS is not a cure, but it may help sufferers control some of its symptoms. It’s also helpful for supporting your health as you transition to a more active lifestyle.
CBD is very easy to add to your daily routine.
It may be taken as oral drops under the tongue, in a capsule or even as a gummy sweet. However, since sugar and sweeteners may be a trigger for some people, gummy sweets may not be the best option.
CBD is excellent as part of a mindfulness or meditation routine. Adding a few drops of CBD oil under the tongue before meditating can help to give users something to focus on, particularly if you choose a flavoured CBD oil.
CBD can also support you in this journey if you are trying to manage your IBS by losing weight and getting more active. A CBD balm is the ideal post-workout pick me up to help ease aching muscles and joints.
Read more: CBD Oil for Arthritis
Is CBD Oil For IBS Safe?
Yes, CBD is typically very well tolerated in most people. However, CBD may interact with other medications, so individuals must confirm if their medication is affected before adding CBD oil to their routine.
A report by The World Health Organisation determined that CBD does not have abuse or dependence potential. This means they do not believe that individuals can become addicted to CBD.
The report also determined that CBD has a good safety profile.
While CBD might come from the cannabis plant, it’s best to think of it as a botanical supplement. Just like certain trendy superfoods that have been popular in the past, CBD may be similar.
So while it shouldn’t be treated as a cure for anything, it could help some people manage symptoms of conditions such as IBS when used as part of a healthy lifestyle.
Will CBD Oil Show On A Drug Test?
Individuals who are subject to drug testing for work or leisure activities may be concerned about using hemp products. However, drug testing is designed to detect THC, so CBD shouldn’t show up in a drug test.
Read more: CBD and Drug Tests
It’s worth noting that there is the risk the CBD could contain higher levels of THC than advertised.
This may happen with less reputable brands, particularly if they do not provide third-party lab analyses of their products.
Provided the CBD is sourced from a reputable brand and certified as THC free, this shouldn’t be a concern. Drug testing does not usually test for CBD, except in countries where it is illegal, so it should be safe for individuals, provided they choose an honest brand.
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