This month’s Healer webinar, led by Dr. Dustin Sulak, took a close look at recent cannabis research, exploring its potential as a treatment for rheumatic disorders, menstrual discomfort, and eczema. Attendees tuned in for insights on the therapeutic uses of cannabis, including the benefits of its roots and CBD-based treatments. Here’s a recap of the most notable findings shared on October 23, 2024.
Cannabis as a Substitute for Traditional Medications
One of the first studies discussed was a secondary analysis of survey data from patients in the U.S. and Canada who have rheumatic conditions. This research, published in ACR Open Rheumatology in September 2024, examined cannabis as a replacement for medications, including opioids and benzodiazepines.
Dr. Sulak shared why this study stood out:
- It revealed the wide variety of medications that patients with rheumatic disorders are substituting with cannabis.
- Data showed that cannabis’s versatility in managing various conditions highlights its broad pharmacology.
- The study reinforced the possibility of cannabis playing a more substantial role in pain management, with fewer risks than traditional painkillers.
While the study offers promising insights, limitations were noted, particularly on how cannabis interacts with medications. Dr. Sulak emphasized the need for further research to understand these interactions and maximize safe use.
Exploring the Untapped Potential of Cannabis Roots
A lesser-known part of the cannabis plant, its roots, was the focus of a second study presented in the webinar. The study, titled “Rooted in therapeutics: comprehensive analyses of Cannabis sativa root extracts reveals potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and bactericidal properties,” appeared in Frontiers in Pharmacology in September 2024.
The research involved analyzing extracts from cannabis roots grown in various conditions and found:
- Cannabis roots offer potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and bactericidal properties.
- Compounds in the roots could protect mitochondrial membranes and serve other valuable therapeutic functions.
Dr. Sulak noted how this study confirms traditional uses of cannabis roots and challenges their classification as waste. This research suggests that roots could become a new frontier in cannabis-based therapies.
CBD Suppositories Show Promise for Menstrual Pain Relief
A high-CBD vaginal suppository was the subject of another study, this one addressing menstrual pain and discomfort. The quasi-experimental study, which appeared in npj Women’s Health in August 2024, assessed the impact of CBD-based suppositories on symptoms during menstruation.
Some key points from the study include:
- The CBD suppositories were more effective at relieving menstrual discomfort than premenstrual symptoms.
- Participants reported meaningful relief in menstrual cramps and other congestive symptoms after using the product for one to two months.
Megan Mbengue, MSMCT, BSN, RN, who contributed to this segment of the webinar, further explained the setup and significant findings, sparking interest among attendees. These findings could influence future treatment options for menstrual pain, particularly for those seeking alternatives to traditional medications.
Combining CBD and Ginger for Eczema Relief
The final study discussed examined an oil-in-water emulsion containing ginger extract and synthetic CBD, designed to relieve atopic dermatitis symptoms. Published in the European Journal of Dermatology, this research screened various extracts and examined their effects on cultured cells, followed by a short clinical trial.
The findings of the study were significant:
- Participants experienced relief from eczema symptoms, with 75% reporting reduced itch within five days.
- The product is considered an “emollient plus,” combining moisture retention with anti-inflammatory properties.
Dr. Sulak explained that CBD and ginger offer complementary effects, addressing both the moisture barrier and the underlying inflammation of eczema. While the trial was brief, the high percentage of positive responses indicates that this combination could be promising for people with eczema and similar skin conditions.