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Does weed help asthma?

Published Jan 29, 2019 01:43 p.m. ET

Let's start with what asthma is. Asthma is a chronic lung condition. Symptoms included in this condition are tightness in the chest and coughing along with wheezing. These symptoms are often noticeable first thing in the morning or late at night. To date,there is no cure for asthma, but we can manage the symptoms and keep it under control.

What happens if you smoke weed with asthma?

Cannabis is well known for its bronchodilator action which coincidentally is the action required to treat asthma symptoms. CBD a component of cannabis is known to help in the reduction of mucus, also a characteristic of asthma. Cannabis has been effective for diminishing muscle spasms. This is what happens to the lungs of an asthmatic; this is otherwise known as bronchospasm.

CBD and alpha-pinene are two components in specific strains of cannabis which will help relieve the spasms.

Often pain in the chest is associated with asthma and can be debilitating. It is interesting to note that the lungs have no pain receptors. The pain is often due to not being able to get a breath.

Weed and asthma

The delivery method of cannabis to the body for an asthmatic person can never involve smoking. This will increase irritation to the affected lungs. Setting up a scenario for a lung infection, and other complications.

Let's talk about the other methods that are available.

An option often chosen by asthmatic people is vaping. When done correctly it will enable the lungs to open and expand immediately.

If you chose to use Marinol a synthetic pill form of THC, you can achieve the same benefits. You may not want the psychotic components of THC, and you may find it a bit less effective than the whole plant, but it is an option other than smoking. Most people find this method better than a nebulizer.

Edibles are another form of delivery for cannabis to your body. The higher the CBD component in your edible the better. Do not forget that using edibles for the relief of asthma will take time to take effect. Knowing this, you may want to consider  vaping for its immediate effect.

There are numerous strains of cannabis out there that could ease the symptoms of an asthmatic life.

Here are a few choices worth mentioning

Harlequin:  this strain is rare, it has an amazing amount of CBD offering relief from inflamed lungs and helping to manage or hopefully prevent any attacks. The fantastic combination of THC and CBD will help with the inflammation and at the same time provide a euphoric, uplifting feeling thanks to the THC component.  Your anxiety and pain should be kept under control with this strain.

Charlotte’s Web:  low in THC but relatively high in CBD is another favorite for the asthmatic person. You will not get psychoactive effects, instead you will be rewarded with relief from pain and inflammation.

The last one I will mention is Nebula II CBD, it is a sativa strain and as the name indicates it is high in CBD, great for treating asthma.

However you choose to administer the cannabis to yourself do it carefully and reliably. Never stop your traditional medication without contacting your health provider.

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