According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Lyme disease is considered as the most common vector-borne disease in the US. Lyme disease is spread through a tick bite, which contains the bacteria “Borrelia burgdorferi.”
Mostly, antibiotics are used to treat the clinical symptoms of Lyme disease. Can a mind-alerting substance be used in managing the clinical signs of Lyme disease? If so, how does it work? In this blog, we will understand how cannabis helps to ease the symptoms of Lyme disease.
What is cannabis?
Cannabis is a plant that contains psychoactive properties, which have the potential to cause alterations in thoughts and perceptions. This plant contains different chemical compounds, such as tetrahydrocannabinol, that impact the mind. Due to its relaxing effects, this drug is used to treat glaucoma and severe pain.
Cannabis can be used to manage a variety of conditions, such as
- Inflammation
- Severe pain
- Seizures
- Anxiety
- Migraine
Cannabis is associated with certain effects, such as experiencing intense sounds, changes in perception of events, more focus, and creativity.
What are the benefits of cannabis for Lyme disease?
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is responsible for maintaining the function of the central nervous system and immune system. Enzymes, receptors, and endocannabinoids constitute the ECS. Cannabinoids modulate the functions of the body by binding to ECS receptors. This can help in reducing clinical symptoms, such as pain, seizures, headaches, etc.
Some of the research studies have pointed out that endocannabinoid deficiency is the major cause of conditions such as IBS, fibromyalgia, etc. Brain fog appears as a clinical manifestation of Lyme disease. Cannabis can reduce the inflammation of the brain and help in regenerating brain cells.
Lyme disease can cause sleep disruption. Cannabis can regulate autonomic output and lead to good sleep. It can also reduce breathing disturbances during sleep. It has been estimated that around 70% of the individuals experienced better sleep with cannabis use.
The limbic system will be overactive in individuals with Lyme disease, leading to “limbic rage syndrome.” Cannabis can influence the dopamine level by reducing the sensory input stimulation, which helps in limiting symptoms.
Cannabis can help in managing the clinical symptoms of Lyme disease due to the presence of constituents like tetrahydrocannabinol, etc. Patients with Lyme disease suffer from various conditions, such as tenderness in the joint region. Cannabis has anti-inflammatory properties that help in reducing pain and swelling. The drug can help in managing mental health conditions, such as clinical depression, anxiety, etc.
