Maybe you ate something that didn’t agree with your digestive system. Perhaps you caught a bug. Or, you’re taking a new medication. The next thing you know, you have an all too familiar — and uncomfortable — uneasiness in your stomach. You feel nauseated.
Nausea, a distinct “sick to your stomach” feeling, is the sensation of having to vomit or feeling the urge to vomit. In some cases — but not all — it may actually be accompanied by vomiting. Unfortunately, it’s a common side effect of many conditions, including:
- Motion sickness
- Indigestion
- Infections in the stomach or bowels
- Gastrointestinal disorders, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Food poisoning
- Migraine headaches
Nausea may also happen after overindulging in food or alcohol and can be a side effect of certain medications, such as antibiotics or chemotherapy drugs. Some people experience chronic, unexplained nausea.
There are many ways to treat nausea, from herbal remedies to prescription medications. One method that’s been growing in popularity is the use of cannabis.
Cannabis for Nausea and Appetite: How Does It Work?
The potential for cannabis to help alleviate nausea lies in how compounds within the plant interact with different systems within the body. Cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) activate receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates various functions and systems, including:
- Sleep
- Mood
- Pain management
- Immune system
- Cardiovascular system
- Reproductive system
- Digestive system
- Appetite
THC interacts directly with CB1 receptors in the brain, which may impact the neurotransmitters associated with controlling nausea.
Other cannabinoids — cannabidiol (CBD) in particular — interact with the body’s serotonin receptors, which also affect nausea regulation. An older study from 2011 found that CBD binding with serotonin receptors reduced the release of serotonin in the brain. That response helped alleviate nausea, showing that CBD may be beneficial in nausea relief for humans.
Cannabis may also provide nausea relief by treating the underlying cause. For instance, it can help alleviate anxiety, reduce chronic pain and inflammation, and improve insomnia, all conditions that can come with nausea as a side effect. With the underlying concern under control, nausea may go away.
How To Choose the Best Weed for Nausea Relief
One of the first things you may notice when considering cannabis for nausea and appetite is that you have many options. There are numerous strains and product types on the market. So, which one do you choose?
Here are a few tips to help you find the best weed for your nausea.
Consider the Cause of Your Nausea
Start by considering your nausea’s root cause. Is it the result of a chronic condition, such as a gut-related disorder, or are you undergoing cancer treatment? Maybe it occurs when gastrointestinal issues flare up?
When you understand the main culprit, you can find the best strains of cannabis to treat it. And treating the cause of your nausea may provide the nausea — and other symptom — relief you need.
Indica vs. Sativa
Indica and Sativa are two categories used to separate cannabis strains. Generally:
- Indicas feature more relaxing and sedating properties and may help alleviate pain, inflammation, and sleep issues, which could ease nausea.
- Sativas are more uplifting and energizing and may combat nausea by improving your mood and providing an energy boost during the day.
There are plenty of hybrid strains on the market, too. These are combinations of Indica and Sativa varieties, which may offer a combination of effects more tailored to your needs.
Terpenes for Nausea
Another factor to consider is a particular strain’s terpene profile. Terpenes are the compounds in cannabis and other plants responsible for the cultivar’s scent and flavor.
Limonene, which gives fruits like lemons and limes their signature citrusy aroma, has gastroprotective properties, which may help ease nausea caused by stomach upset or gastric discomfort. Humulene, also present in hops and ginseng, may alleviate gastritis.
Other terpenes that may be beneficial for treating nausea include:
- Beta-caryophyllene
- Myrcene
- Pinene
Best Methods of Consumption
When nausea strikes, you may want relief quickly. Your consumption method matters. Inhaled cannabis, such as smoking joints or vaping, offers the fastest-acting results. Cannabinoids enter the bloodstream quickly through the lungs, traveling to the brain and getting straight to work. However, the effects don’t generally last very long.
That’s where edibles come in, offering longer-lasting relief. The downside is that you may not feel like eating anything when dealing with nausea. In such cases, a cannabis tincture or THC tablets may be just the thing. Keep in mind that ingested cannabis doesn’t offer the same immediate relief as inhaled varieties.
No matter what method of consumption and strain you choose, start with a small dose and see how you feel. Then, gradually increase the amount until you find what works best for you.
Other Ways To Help Ease Nausea
While cannabis may provide relief, there are other things you might try to ease your nausea, such as:
- Eating light or bland foods
- Drinking cool, clear liquids
- Avoiding foods that are fried, greasy, or sweet
- Eating and drinking more slowly
- Having smaller meals
- Avoiding too much activity immediately after eating
- Getting fresh air
- Talking with your doctor about alternative medications
Ask for Help
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed walking into a dispensary. After all, there are a lot of different products and strains on the shelves. If you still aren’t sure what to choose after browsing the available options, don’t be afraid to ask for help!
At VidaCann, our friendly, knowledgeable budtenders are happy to help you find the best weed for your nausea. They can personalize recommendations based on your unique needs and preferences and offer additional tips for optimal results.
Find the Best Weed for Nausea Relief at VidaCann
If you’re thinking about trying cannabis for nausea and appetite, your first step is to consult with your physician. A cannabis doctor can help you decide if weed is a good option for you. Then, you’ll want to visit a great dispensary with plenty of high-quality options and experienced staff to point you in the right direction.
VidaCann is proud to be one of Florida’s largest and most sustainable medical cannabis providers. We’re committed to helping Floridians live their healthiest lives. Feel free to check out our products online, or find your nearest dispensary and visit us in person today!