CBD Oil for Diarrhea

  • Dr. Nicole Davis
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Last updated on 25 May 2022

Can CBD Help With Diarrhea, and if So, How?

  • Diarrhea occurs by loose or watery stools that occur at least three times per day. While it’s usually temporary, about 5 percent of Americans suffer from chronic diarrhea, which is a type of diarrhea that may last for many weeks (1 ).
  • Loperamide is among the most frequently prescribed anti-diarrheal drugs to manage serious symptoms and decrease the frequency of stool movements. However, these medications may trigger medical conditions, causing the condition to get worse after intake.
  • Cannabidiol (CBD) could be a treatment option for diarrhea because of the way the chemical compound impacts the body. Numerous studies have shown that CBD can help ease the symptoms of diarrhea like abdominal pain(2) and intestinal inflammation(3) and hypermotility(4).
  • There is however no conclusive evidence that CBD is able to treat diarrhea, since the majority of studies conducted regarding digestive tract disorders were conducted on animals.

See the Best CBD Oil for Diarrhea in 2022

How CBD Oil Compares to Alternative Treatments for Diarrhea

In addition to drinking lots of fluids, people are often recommended by doctors to take probiotics. Probiotics consist of yeast and live bacteria that are beneficial to the digestive system of a person.

Diarrhea sufferers may lose healthy bacteria in the stomach and intestines that are essential to maintaining the health of your digestive tract. Probiotics, which contain yeast and good bacteria are believed to replace the microorganisms that protect the digestive tract, assisting to in restoring normal bowel function.

A study of effectiveness of probiotics for diarrhea found that the treatment could decrease the duration of the diarrhea by at minimum one day. There are several reports suggesting that probiotics may be able to stop diarrhea completely (29 ).

Probiotics are now consumed in a variety of forms, including yogurt, milk powders, capsules, and even powders.

It is possible to find CBD products available today which are infused with probiotics that provide the most benefits for GI issues. You can also discover CBD combined with herbal extracts, such as chamomile, peppermint and aloe vera. These are believed to help combat IBD-related symptoms. IBD.

How to Choose the Best CBD Oil for Diarrhea

If you are thinking about the advantages from CBD oil to combat diarrhea There are three primary kinds of CBD oil that are available in the present.

The most popular, and the first well-known, is full spectrum CBD. The type of CBD that is full-spectrum includes all the chemical compounds that are present in the Cannabis sativa plant.

It contains varying amounts of the psychoactive THC and is typically offered in the form of CBD edibles, tinctures, creams, as well as vaping oil. Many people purchase full spectrum CBD to experience the known synergistic effect, which is also known as “the entourage effect.”

The second kind of CBD is known as broad-spectrum. It contains the same substances as full-spectrum but without the THC amount. The mind-altering ingredient is eliminated so that people can consume CBD with no THC present.

There are also isolates made from only pure CBD only. They are typically sourced by industrial hemp plant as they have the highest levels of CBD among cannabis varieties.

CBD isolates are not a source of the other phytocannabinoids found in cannabis medical use and are typically sold in powdered or crystals.

Before purchasing CBD oil to treat diarrhea patients must consult a medical physician to avoid any complications. Selecting a physician who has experience with marijuana and the constituents it contains could be particularly advantageous.

These are some tips to help consumers select the most secure and trustworthy CBD products:

  1. Buy only top-quality CBD products from trusted brands. A lot of legitimate CBD businesses cultivate hemp plants or buy the hemp from trusted producers.
  2. When you are considering buying through an internet-based CBD shop, make certain to read their reviews of the product first. For dispensaries and stores that are physically located make sure they’re licensed from the Federal government authorities to offer CBD.
  3. Study the legal requirements regarding CBD usage in the region in which one wants to buy and take it in.
  4. Find certification codes on those CBD products. Certification authorities have the authority to approve certain CBD products after they have passed a rigorous screening and tests.

CBD Dosage for Diarrhea

While there are a myriad of potential therapeutic uses for CBD medical professionals and practitioners are still trying to determine the right dosage that is both effective and safe for consumers.

As the FDA is yet to issue guidelines for CBD dosage, it might be helpful to study the dosages used in previous clinical trials with humans to get an idea.

In a study conducted in 2018 on ulcerative colitis in a study, fifty mg CBD hemp oil were administered to participants twice a day. The dosage increased to 250 mg if there were no adverse effects. Researchers discovered that participants who took CBD had clinical remissions and improved quality of life (30 ).

Additionally, the study revealed that the subjects did not experience any adverse reactions after having CBD oil for 10 weeks as part of their treatment. The study suggests that CBD dosages of 50 mg every day, taken twice, could be well-accepted by humans.

Some experts in the field of health suggest beginning with 40 mg, and gradually increasing the dosage until desired effects are experienced.

The best recommendation currently is to begin at the lowest dosage and gradually increase the dosage as needed. Once you have experienced the desired effect the user should take an note of the effect and adhere to the dosage.

How to Take CBD Oil for Diarrhea

The CBD products available currently can be purchased in a variety of delivery formats.

There are CBD capsules and pills that are similar to traditional health supplements and tablets. A study of ulcerative colitis in humans utilized CBD capsules, and found an improvement in health scores for the majority of sufferers (31 ).

CBD that is edible is sold in the form of gummies or chocolates and may be a better option for those who struggle with taking CBD pills.

The most well-known CBD products available are the CBD oil and the tinctures. They usually include droppers that permit users to test and apply CBD directly on the tongue.

Can CBD Cause Diarrhea?

A review published of 2017, diarrhea was one of the most frequent adverse effects discovered by researchers in a variety of clinical studies of CBD usage (32 ). Other adverse reactions observed include fatigue and a decreased appetite.

CBD can be different for each person. Certain individuals may see positive effects however, others might not be able to take CBD and may experience adverse negative effects.

Individuals who aren’t able to tolerate CBD oil are likely to have adverse reactions, such as fatigue or diarrhea. While CBD has been proven to be beneficial for many individuals, every person is different and there are some who are not compatible with CBD.

This is why it is important to consult with a physician prior to purchasing CBD products.

Is It Possible to Overdose With CBD?

In their study of cannabidiol, World Health Organization (WHO) discovered that there isn’t any evidence of any major health issues related to the pure CBD usage. The WHO added that CBD has a favorable safety profile and is generally tolerated in human beings (33 ).

The review that was that was mentioned earlier also confirms the safety of CBD usage. Researchers discovered that even high doses of as much as 1500 mg CBD daily do not cause adverse reactions in participants in clinical trials (34 ).

However, taking high doses of CBD could increase the likelihood of suffering from possible adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, or an appetite loss. While these side effects aren’t life-threatening, it’s important to be aware of CBD oil consumption to ensure the most pleasant experience.

Types of Gastrointestinal Disorders

These are some of the more common kinds of GI illnesses today.


Chronic Diarrhea

The gastrointestinal disorder is a condition in which the sufferer experiences loose or watery stools that last for several months. Seven out of every hundred Americans suffer from this disease.

Alongside watery stools and the need to bowels regularly Other common signs of chronic diarrhea are nausea, bloating, as well as abdominal cramps. Consult a physician is recommended to determine the most effective method to treat chronic diarrhea.


Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is an illness that can cause inflammation in the large intestine. It is identified by signs, such as abdominal pain, cramping, gas and weight loss, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea.

As per the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders, IBS affects between 25 and 45 million people within the United States, with two out of three affected females (35 ).

IBS is an ongoing illness which has no cure however, its symptoms are believed to be treatable with the combination of lifestyle changes, diet changes, fiber supplements and medicines. The stress of life can cause or increase IBS symptoms, which is why counselling and antidepressants could be required.


Crohn’s Disease

Along with ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease is a different kind of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) that affects more than one percent of adults within the United States (36 ). The symptoms of Crohn’s disease are like IBS but with decreased eating habits and loss of weight.

Patients should consult a physician when they notice constant shifts in their digestive routines or experience abdominal pains or bloody stool.

There exists no treatment for the Crohn’s condition, and the treatments that are commonly suggested involve diet and lifestyle changes.


Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a different type of IBD that causes inflammation and ulcers to develop within the digestive tract. Colitis differs from Crohn’s disease because it targets specifically the colon and rectum.

The most frequent colitis-related symptoms are difficulty in bowel defecating and abdominal pain, fever and bleeding from the rectal. Like Crohn’s disease colitis has no cure.


Gastritis

The condition is usually manifested by a burning sensation in the abdomen area as well as nausea and vomiting. Gastritis can be caused by excessive use of alcohol or pain relief medication, or it may be caused by bacteria-related infections.

To determine if gastritis is present, doctors examine family and personal documents, conduct an examination of the body, and may even suggest stool and blood tests.

If not treated If left untreated, gastritis may get more severe and eventually turn to stomach cancer. Gastritis chronic is believed to affect 2 out of every ten thousand people however, it is treated with the proper treatment.


Celiac Disease

Also called Gluten-sensitive Enteropathy (GSE), (entero means the bowel, and pathy is a term used to describe a disease) celiac disease is a genetic gastrointestinal disease that is caused by a reaction to gluten. Gluten is one of the categories of proteins that can occur in the grains, like barley, rye and wheat.

If a person with celiac disease eats gluten, their body triggers an immune response that damages the intestinal villi. Villi loss causes the small intestine to not being able to absorb nutrients, vitamins and micronutrients efficiently.

This can lead to malnutrition, and could cause a variety of serious health issues, such as permanent damage to the small bowel as well as infertility and colitis.


Constipation

Constipation is probably the most frequent of digestive tract diseases. However, some people suffer from chronic constipation, which is characterized with painful movements of hard standing that be present for weeks or longer.

Problems and blockages with the colon’s nerves and rectum may cause constipation.

The condition of the digestive tract causes constant discomfort and stress for the sufferers. The intensity of the physical symptoms may affect one’s life daily and can even lead to anxiety.

Conclusion

Diarrhea refers to people who experience loose or watery stool, that can occur three times per day. Other symptoms and signs of diarrhea are stomach, fever, bloody stools, and an uncontrollable stool movement.

Anti-diarrheal medicines, like the loperamide, are typically prescribed to treat the severity of symptoms and to reduce stool movements. However, certain health issues may worsen when taking these medications.

CBD, also known as CBD could be a remedy for diarrhea because of its alleged properties. Numerous studies have demonstrated that CBD can help ease diarrhea and abdominal pain that is common in intestinal inflammation.

However, the majority of studies on CBD’s efficacy in treating digestive issues were conducted in animals. Certain studies with humans have also been conducted however, the results aren’t conclusive.

The FDA acknowledges the potential medicinal benefits of cannabidiol, and is a proponent of scientific research into this chemical substance. Further studies and clinical trials with human subjects are required to determine whether CBD is able to truly alleviate symptoms of diarrhea.

Like any other medication that is prescribed, CBD users must consult with a physician to prevent any problems.

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  2. Hasenoehrl C, Storr M Schicho R, Hasenoehrl C. Cannabinoids for treating inflammatory digestive disorders Where are we now and where should we go?. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2017;11(4):329-337. doi:10.1080/17474124.2017.1292851
  3. De Filippis D, Esposito G, Cirillo C, et al. Cannabidiol reduces intestinal inflammation via the control of the neuroimmune axis. PLoS One. 2011;6(12):e28159. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0028159
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  6. Mayo Clinic. Diarrhea. Retrieved from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diarrhea/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352246.
  7. Ibid.
  8. Crippa JA, Guimaraes FS, Campos AC, Zuardi AW. Translational Investigation of the Therapeutic Potential of Cannabidiol (CBD): Toward a New Age. Front Immunol. 2018;9:2009. Published 2018 Sep 21. doi:10.3389/fimmu.2018.02009
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  13. Ibid.
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  16. Capasso R. et al. op. cit.
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  18. De Filippis D. et al. op. cit.
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  21. DiPatrizio NV. Endocannabinoids in the Gut. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res. 2016;1(1):67-77. doi:10.1089/can.2016.0001
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  23. Roohafza He, Bidaki Z, Hasanzadeh Keshteli, Daghaghzade H, Afshar H, Adibi P. Depression, anxiety and stress in irritable bowel syndrome and their subtypes: A population-based study. research study based on a population. Adv Biomed Res. 2016;5:183. Published 2016 Nov 28. doi:10.4103/2277-9175.190938
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  25. US Food and Drug Administration (2020, March 11). FDA Regulation of Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Products, Including Cannabidiol (CBD). Retrieved from: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/public-health-focus/fda-regulation-cannabis-and-cannabis-derived-products-including-cannabidiol-cbd.
  26. US Food and Drug Administration (2020, January 14). FDA and Cannabis: Research and Drug Approval Process. Retrieved from: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/public-health-focus/fda-and-cannabis-research-and-drug-approval-process.
  27. Bonn-Miller MO, Loflin MJE, Thomas BF, Marcu JP, Hyke T, Vandrey R. Labeling Accuracy of Cannabidiol Extracts Sold Online. JAMA. 2017;318(17):1708-1709. doi:10.1001/jama.2017.11909
  28. Grinspoon, P (2020, April 15). Cannabidiol (CBD) –What we know and what do not know. Retrieved from: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cannabidiol-cbd-what-we-know-and-what-we-dont-2018082414476.
  29. Guarino A, Guandalini S, Lo Vecchio A. Probiotics for Prevention and Treatment of Diarrhea. J Clin Gastroenterol. 2015;49 Suppl 1:S37-S45. doi:10.1097/MCG.0000000000000349
  30. Kafil T.S., Nguyen T.M MacDonald JK Chande N. Cannabis for the treatment of ulcerative colitis. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2018, Issue 11. Art. No. : CD012954. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD012954.pub2
  31. Picardo S, Kaplan GG, Sharkey KA, Seow CH. The significance of cannabis in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. Therap Adv Gastroenterol. 2019;12:1756284819870977. Published 2019 Sep 3. doi:10.1177/1756284819870977
  32. Iffland K, Grotenhermen F. An Update on Safety and Side Effects of Cannabidiol: A Review of Clinical Data and Relevant Animal Studies. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res. 2017;2(1):139-154. Published 2017 Jun 1. doi:10.1089/can.2016.0034
  33. World Health Organization (2018 June). Cannabidiol (CBD) Critical Review Report. Retrieved from: https://www.who.int/medicines/access/controlled-substances/CannabidiolCriticalReview.pdf.
  34. Iffland K, Grotenhermen, F. O. cit.
  35. International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (2016, November 24). Retrieved from: https://www.aboutibs.org/facts-about-ibs.html.
  36. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Inflammatory Bowel Disease Prevalence (IBD) in the United States. Retrieved from: https://www.cdc.gov/ibd/data-statistics.htm.

Author

nicole davis
Dr. Nicole Davis
Integrative medicine specialist | View posts

Nicole Davis is a integrative medicine specialist who focuses on sleep and fatigue. She has extensively explored the therapeutic properties of cannabis, and provides specialized treatment plans according to personal symptoms. Dr. Davis is passionate about helping people feel their best, and believes that everyone deserves access to quality healthcare.

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