Can CBD effectively treat acid reflux?

Gastric reflux is a common condition in adults characterized by the regurgitation of a part of the stomach contents into the esophagus, causing irritation of its lining.

The treatment of this condition relies on the prescription of medications that can alleviate its chronic symptoms, although they may not always promote healing of the affected lining.

When experiencing gastric reflux, some individuals prefer to explore alternative treatment options such as CBD. Given the well-established positive effects of CBD on the digestive system, this compound appears as a potential treatment for gastric reflux.
However, is it truly effective in managing this condition? Discover the answer to this question here.

Before discussing the actions of CBD in the treatment of gastric reflux or gastroesophageal reflux (GER), it is important to remember that this condition is actually a digestive disease.

Specifically, it occurs when the muscle that prevents the contents of the stomach from flowing back into the esophagus is dysfunctional. During gastric reflux, a portion of gastric juice or bile flows back into the esophagus and irritates its lining. Gastric reflux is mainly characterized by acid reflux and recurring stomach burns more than twice a week.

When a person regularly suffers from gastric reflux, the acid reflux is quite significant. Over time, the acid reflux ends up irritating the lining of the esophagus and can lead to inflammation.
This is referred to as esophagitis. In most cases, people suffering from gastric reflux also experience burning sensations in the stomach.
They also face other disorders such as poor digestion and abdominal pain.

The action of CBD on digestion

CBD (cannabidiol) is one of the many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Through its CB1 and CB2 receptors, this substance can directly influence the Endocannabinoid System (ECS).
According to several studies, CBD, through its receptors, acts in different ways to ensure the proper functioning of the gastrointestinal system.

Thanks to its receptors, CBD, for example, helps reduce gastric secretions. By doing so, it decreases intragastric pressure and regulates appetite. In the form of hemp, CBD is rich in dietary fibers that facilitate intestinal transit.
Also rich in proteins, CBD in the form of hemp promotes proper digestion and antibody production. Therefore, it can alleviate constipation problems.

The action of CBD on inflammation

CBD also acts on the gastrointestinal tract. Through its anti-inflammatory properties, this molecule reduces discomfort and acid production.
Thus, CBD could help relieve pain caused by inflammation in cases of gastric reflux.
With its antibacterial virtues, CBD could also assist the digestive system in distinguishing between beneficial and harmful bacteria for its proper functioning.

CBD is a substance that is subject to a number of regulations when consumed.
Before taking CBD for medical purposes, particularly for the treatment of gastric reflux, it is essential to consult your doctor in advance to obtain authorization.
Once the doctor has given their authorization, the patient has a choice of different types of CBD products for their treatment. These mainly include CBD oil and hemp infusions.

CBD oil is a very easy-to-use CBD product. Simply place a few drops of this oil on the tongue for 30 to 45 seconds before swallowing.

CBD oil is available in a wide range of concentrations based on the patient's needs and the intensity of the symptoms.
Hemp infusions, on the other hand, are less concentrated in CBD. However, they promote relaxation, aid in falling asleep, and are ideal for preventing digestive discomfort.

If it's true that CBD can relieve symptoms associated with gastric reflux, this substance is not officially recognized as a treatment for this digestive condition.
Therefore, for the treatment of acid reflux, CBD should not be consumed as a standalone medication. Instead, it should be used as a therapeutic supplement or in conjunction with conventional treatments recommended for gastric reflux.

To avoid gastric reflux and other digestion-related disorders, it is essential to have good hygiene and dietary habits. Simply put, it's important to first avoid consuming foods that increase gastric acid production and slow down stomach emptying.
Next, it's necessary to reduce the consumption of stomach-irritating products (foods and beverages).
Lastly, it is crucial to avoid stress at all costs, as this state of tension can increase acid secretion.