Can we treat the common cold with CBD oil, edibles, or by smoking marijuana?

• This article explores the use of cannabis, including CBD oil, smoking marijuana, and eating edibles, in the treatment of colds. Although it may provide relief for certain symptoms such as pain and improving sleep, there is no scientific evidence to support its effectiveness as a treatment for colds. It is crucial to consider side effects and interactions with other medications, and consultation with a health professional is always recommended.
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Fran Quesada Moya

27-02-2024 09:00:00 - Updated: 27 February, 2024

In recent years, the use of cannabis and its derivatives has gained popularity in the treatment of various conditions and symptoms. One of the most frequent questions is whether CBD oil and other cannabis products can be effective in treating colds. In this article, we will explore the different ways of using cannabis in the context of a cold and evaluate its effectiveness. If you need cannabis for other health issues, you can take a look at this other article where we discuss the best marijuana strains for pain.

Does CBD oil help with colds?

 

Although CBD oil has gained popularity for its various health benefits, currently there is not enough scientific evidence to support its use specifically for treating colds. CBD is known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, and some users report an overall improvement in well-being when using it. However, when it comes to colds, which are caused by viruses, CBD has not been proven to be an effective remedy for preventing or curing them.

It’s important to remember that while CBD may help alleviate certain symptoms like pain or inflammation, it does not replace conventional medical treatments for colds. If you have a cold, it is advisable to follow recommendations for rest, hydration, and if necessary, use approved medications to alleviate symptoms. If you are considering using CBD oil for any health condition, it is advisable to first consult with a health professional.

Smoking marijuana with a cold

Smoking marijuana during a cold presents both advantages and disadvantages. Among the advantages, some studies suggest that cannabis may help alleviate cold symptoms such as cough, nasal congestion, and pain associated with the illness. THC, one of the components of cannabis, acts as an immunosuppressive agent, which could result in reduced inflammation of the lungs and improved breathing. Moreover, marijuana can reduce pain and help with sleep, especially if Indica strains are used.

However, there are also disadvantages. Smoking cannabis can irritate the airways, which could be counterproductive if you already have a cold. Although smoking marijuana has not been directly linked to lung cancer as cigarettes have, it can cause asthma-like symptoms in chronic smokers. Additionally, the reduction in immune function caused by THC could make the body less capable of fighting the infection, potentially prolonging the duration of the cold.

It is important to note that there are not enough studies to definitively confirm these effects, and the impact of cannabis on the severity or duration of a cold is likely to be minimal, especially in people with a healthy immune system. In summary, although marijuana might offer certain symptomatic benefits for relieving a cold, there is also the risk of worsening certain symptoms, especially if smoked. As always, it is recommended to consult with a health professional before using cannabis to treat any medical condition.

Cannabis edibles when sick with a cold

Cannabis edibles may be an option for some people who are sick with a cold, but it is important to consider several aspects before deciding to consume them. Here are some points to keep in mind:

• Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic Effect: CBD, a compound in cannabis, is known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. These effects could help alleviate some cold symptoms, such as body aches.
• Sleep Improvement: Cannabis, especially CBD-rich varieties, can help improve sleep quality, which is important for recovery during a cold.
• Less Irritating than Smoking: Cannabis edibles can be a better option than smoking for people with colds, as smoking can irritate the airways and worsen symptoms like cough and congestion.
• Dose and Delayed Effects: Cannabis edibles have a slower onset and a longer duration of effects compared to smoking or vaporizing. It is important to be careful with dosing to avoid adverse effects.
• Potential Interactions and Side Effects: As with any supplement or medication, cannabis can interact with other treatments. Additionally, it may cause side effects such as drowsiness or mood alterations.
• Medical Consultation: It is essential to consult with a health professional before using cannabis edibles to treat cold symptoms, especially if you are taking other medications or have preexisting health conditions.

Can weed help with a cold? Conclusions

In conclusion, there is no solid scientific evidence to support that marijuana specifically helps with colds. Although some marijuana users report subjective relief from certain cold symptoms, such as pain reduction or improved sleep, these benefits are not backed by clinical research. Among the potential benefits of smoking marijuana during a cold, some users highlight the feeling of temporary relief from symptoms like nasal congestion, sore throat, and general discomfort. Marijuana can also help improve sleep, which is important for recovery during a cold.

However, there are several cons associated with smoking marijuana when you have a cold. Smoking itself can irritate the airways and exacerbate symptoms like cough and nasal congestion. Additionally, marijuana smoke can be harmful to the lungs, especially if they are already compromised by a respiratory infection. It is also important to consider that marijuana can interact with other medications being taken for the cold.

Given that medical research on the use of marijuana to treat colds is limited, and considering the potential side effects, it is advisable to consult with a health professional before using marijuana as a treatment for a cold. Additionally, alternative consumption methods to smoking, such as edibles or vaporizers, should be considered, which may be less irritating to the respiratory system, something you can check by reading this other article that talks about the differences between cannabis smoke and vapor.