CBD stands for cannabidiol, which is a phytocannabinoid naturally found in the cannabis sativa plant. Research has shown it actually makes up about 40% of the plant, in addition to over 80 other cannabinoids. When this chemical is extracted and isolated, we get what is known colloquially as CBD. CBD has been known as the portion of the cannabis plant that creates the “body high” rather than the “mind high” that traditional marijuana or THC isolates induce. Because of this distinction, CBD has become a popular choice for those who don’t enjoy regular cannabis use, or are without access to medical marijuana for their symptom relief.

CBD has been the subjects of numerous medical studies in recent years, thanks to the claims of many who say it may relieve symptoms relating to everything from anxiety, depression, diabetes, seizures, Crohn’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and many more ailments. The effects of CBD have long been observed among cannabis users and non-users alike. People who have never tried cannabis previously have been opting for CBD as a pain relief option without the psychoactive properties of THC. While medical associations are still studying cannabis-based treatment for a variety of conditions, the Food and Drug Administration has approved for medical use a prescription CBD oil called Epidiolex to treat two types of epilepsy.

Can CBD Oil help with digestive issues like Crohn’s Disease?

Yes, CBD oil has shown promise in helping with digestive issues like Crohn’s Disease. Some studies suggest that CBD can help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, leading to relief for those with Crohn’s. However, it’s essential to consult a doctor before incorporating CBD into your treatment plan. Try this cbd queso recipe and chips for a tasty way to incorporate CBD into your diet!

How CBD oil works for gut inflammation

Crohn’s disease is one form of a gastrointestinal (GI) disorder called inflammatory bowel disease. Another common form of inflammatory bowel disease is ulcerative colitis. Crohn’s disease symptoms can range from abdominal pain to loss of appetite to fatigue (and other even less fun symptoms like diarrhea or constipation), which are caused by chronic inflammation of the GI tract.

There is some evidence that cannabinoids like CBD can help reduce inflammation, which may suggest why users say it can relieve pain. For Crohn’s disease patients, these anti-inflammatory effects could help their reduce symptoms. Although more research is needed on CBD oil use for Crohn’s disease sufferers, individual reports claim their personal use of CBD oil has been effective at reducing some of their chronic symptoms. In addition to a decrease in pain, it may also bring back appetite and help control weight fluctuations.

If you have been thinking of trying CBD oil to help manage your Crohn’s disease, here are a few worth considering.

CBDistillery Full Spectrum CBD Oil Tincture

A good full-spectrum CBD oil for everyday use, this U.S.-grown hemp-derived CBD gives you a total of 1000mg CBD per 30ml tincture. CBDistillery offers potent and affordable products, so first-time users don’t need to worry about breaking the bank. It is good to note that this tincture does include <0.3% THC, so it may give users a positive sample on a drug test. While CBD products under 0.3% THC are legal, be aware of your individual state, local and company guidelines.

CBDistillery Broad Spectrum CBD Oil Tincture

Another product from CBDistillery, this broad-spectrum oil also offers a total of 1000mg of CBD, but without the worry of THC included. According to their website, this CBD product “gives you the synergy of other cannabinoids and terpenes so that you can take advantage of what is known as the ‘entourage effect.’” which multiplies the benefits of CBD, without THC. 

A note on the difference between full-spectrum and broad-spectrum:

While the two sound similar (and may even give different individuals similar effects), they do mean different things, and have little to do with the potency of a product. Full-spectrum CBD means it contains the cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, and up to 0.3% THC. Broad-spectrum CBD also includes many of these cannabinoids, only without the THC. Some of the oils listed will be full-spectrum, some will be broad-spectrum and others will be CBD isolates. CBD isolates contain CBD only, with none of the other cannabinoids or compounds from the plant. Finding the right product and dosage is dependent on each individuals’ unique body chemistry.

Fab Full Spectrum CBD Oil

This product from Fab is a great full-spectrum CBD product for Crohn’s disease, as it is a favorite among thousands of users. It boasts almost nothing but 5-star reviews, and comes in a variety of flavors and sizes. Choose from citrus, mint, natural, berry and vanilla. Fab CBD sources from hemp plants grown in Colorado and openly publishes all third-party lab test results for its products, so you know you are getting a quality product.

Exhale Full Spectrum CBD Oil

The Exhale brand is known for high-quality products and clean ingredients. This oil is vegan, organic and made using their clean, safe Supercritical Carbon Dioxide extraction method. Exhale also uses MCT oil as a carrier oil, which is considered a healthy fat supplement that can help maintain a healthy gut. They offer 600mg and 1200mg potencies, good for honing in the correct dose if you find a 1000mg bottle isn’t quite right.

Lazarus Naturals THC-Free High-Potency CBD Oil Tincture

One of the most affordable brands listed, Lazarus Naturals products are both tasty and effective. The numerous 5-star reviews speak for themselves. This CBD rich oil achieves an anti-inflammatory effect without any THC, and comes in a refreshing, citrusy blood orange flavor. While some people prefer to administer their CBD drops directly into their mouth, others enjoy mixing this product into recipes and beverages.

Lazarus Naturals Classic High-Potency CBD Tincture

Another affordable Lazarus Naturals product that is good for Crohn’s disease symptoms is this high-potency option. Offering a whopping 50mg of CBD per 1ml serving (that’s $0.03 per mg), this best-seller is “effective, versatile, and masterfully formulated to help promote relaxation, recovery, and overall well-being.” It also comes in four flavors: Classic, Chocolate Mint, French Vanilla Mocha and Yuzu.

Penguin CBD Oil

Using CBD sourced from hemp plants grown in Oregon without pesticides, and a carbon dioxide extraction process, Penguin is another brand offering clean THC-free CBD products. Their oil also chooses MCT oil as its carrier, providing an added nutritional benefit. Flavor options include natural, mint, citrus, strawberry, or cookies and cream. They have potencies ranging from 250mg to 5000mg of CBD, so you can find an option for any level to manage symptoms.

Budpop CBD Tincture

Although this CBD product by Budpop is a it on the pricey-er side, its unique peppermint flavor may just make it your new go-to addition to your morning mocha. Third-party lab-tested and with no additives or preservatives, you can be sure your purchase is well worth it. And if not, Budpop offers a 30-day money back guarantee. The colorful, artistic label design is also an added bonus that may just make you want to put the bottle on display as an art piece.

Bluebird Unflavored CBD Oil

This oil by Bluebird is a CBD isolate, which means it contains nothing else found in cannabis besides the extracted CBD. You can view their third-party lab results right on the website to confirm it is indeed solely CBD. Isolates can provide similar levels of anti-inflammatory effects for Crohn’s disease patients without any other substances included, if that is something you are looking out for.

cbdMD CBD Oil Tinctures

It is true that cbdMD is well-known and well-respected in the CBD community. This recognition is part because of their quality sourcing and transparent product testing, and part because of their variety of products. There are several CBD tinctures to choose from on their website, with both full-spectrum and broad-spectrum options. Additionally, they offer blends specifically for better sleep, or water-solubility if you like to mix your oil with beverages. Each type has a few different flavors to try out as well.

Cheef Botanicals

The Cheef Botanicals brand is California-based, and strives to educate users about all the positive effects of cannabis use. Although they only offer a flavorless full-spectrum CBD tincture, it comes in a variety of sizes, and they offer size bundles for cheaper bulk-buying. A unique aspect of their formula is the inclusion of hempseed oil, which provides additional benefits. It’s rich in omega-6, omega-3 and three polyunsaturated fatty acids (linoleic acid, alpha-linolenic acid and gamma-linolenic acid.) These acids are known to be helpful in reducing inflammation, which can further improve Crohn’s disease symptoms.

Hollyweed CBD Full Spectrum Oil

Made with clean carbon dioxide extraction methods, this oil from Hollyweed CBD is also infused with hempseed oil. It comes in sizes ranging from 300mg to 3000mg. There is also a subscribe and save option to save 25% on reoccurring order, which may be helpful if you want to use CBD to consistently relieve symptoms of gut inflammation.

CBD oil for Crohn’s disease

If you have been looking for a new way to manage common symptoms of Crohn’s disease, or if you just need additional relief on top of other medications, using CBD may be a good option. Finding the right product and dose may take some time and experimenting. If one product is not quite right for you, refer back to this list to find other high-quality and affordable CBD products to choose from to help improve your quality of life with Crohn’s disease.

Adverse effects of long-term cannabis use

There is little information about the health risks associated with long-term cannabis consumption. We recommend using caution and consulting with a healthcare provider before starting any CBD regimen for Crohn’s disease symptom relief.