Amyloidosis is a rare condition that affects less than 200,000 people in the United States. The disease can cause significant harm to various organs, including the heart, kidneys, spleen, nervous system, or digestive tract. While there are limited treatment options available for amyloidosis, early research indicates that medical cannabis may be an effective therapy for managing symptoms.
Different strains of medical cannabis have been found to assist in alleviating symptoms for different types of amyloidosis. Indica-dominant strains help anxiety, pain, and lack of appetite, while sativa-dominant strands ease nausea and fight fatigue. One of the most notable characteristics of CBD that aids in treating symptoms of amyloidosis is the cannabinoid’s anti-inflammatory effects. These effects are especially helpful in gastrointestinal-related conditions that cause an enlarged tongue and swelling in other body parts and organs.
THC has been found to prevent amyloid buildup in the body. Researchers theorize that cannabinoids have beneficial antioxidant properties, and THC suppresses cell-mediated immunity, which is significant to amyloidosis. A 2004 study on the role of the endocannabinoid system in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) suggests that cannabinoids that alleviate symptoms of amyloidosis do the same for dementia-related disorders.
A Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease study in 2016 pointed out that cannabinoid receptor two is linked to amyloid processing in a mice trial, suggesting that cannabis-based therapy may be the answer to dementia disease. While no definitive discoveries regarding medical cannabis and amyloidosis have been made, research thus far suggests that both THC and CBD will continue to be at the forefront of possible therapies as successful studies continue.
One obstacle to treating amyloidosis is the lack of early diagnosis. However, reports suggest that medical cannabis calming the condition are hopeful. While THC stunts the disease by preventing amyloid buildup, CBD may help alleviate symptoms of nausea, anxiety, and depression.
Currently, treatment for Amyloidosis is harsh and includes high-dose chemotherapy, steroids, and liver and kidney transplant. The potential for medical cannabis to help with Amyloidosis presents an alternative form of treatment that could change how this rare condition is managed.
In conclusion, while further research is needed regarding medical marijuana’s efficacy in managing amyloidosis fully; initial reports indicate it has promising therapeutic potential. Cannabis-based therapy presents an alternative treatment option for patients suffering from this rare condition with limited treatment options available to them. As more successful studies continue on this topic, we can hope for a brighter future for those diagnosed with amyloidosis.
