Many users of THC vape pens are looking for an alternative to the harsh medications that are often prescribed. There is a growing number of people that prefer Elevate right vaping THC to smoking it, because this method does not present the same adverse health consequences as smoking. For example, you are unable to get the intoxication effect from vaping without experiencing the adverse effects of smokiness and tar. So, can THC vape pens help with nausea and digestive issues?
Cannabinoid receptors in the brain and intestinal tractÂ
Cannabinoids are chemicals that naturally occur in the body. To date, researchers have identified over fifty compounds that act like cannabinoids. Some of these compounds are linked to psychiatric problems such as anxiety and depression. However, others are linked to appetite enhancement, in addition to relief from nausea and vomiting.
The cannabinoid system and the gastrointestinal tract
There are cannabinoid receptors that are found in the brain and the gastrointestinal tract. The major neurotransmitter of these receptors is serotonin. In fact, over 90% of the neurons that produce serotonin are located in the intestines- not in the brain. These receptors also stimulate a process called peristalsis that moves material through your intestines more quickly.
Mechanisms of action
THC is a cannabinoid that can affect the nervous system. This means that other neurotransmitter systems, such as dopamine, are also affected. The primary effects of THC are relaxation and increased appetite. It is therefore possible that THC could improve digestive issues by reducing nausea and vomiting.
Why THC might not help with digestion issues
Experiments in both animals and humans have shown that it is very difficult to find a way to deliver THC through the intestine. To be specific, the cannabinoid does not enter the stomach and intestines through special portals that are found in other parts of the body. This means that when you put your THC vape pen to your lips, it has to travel through the mouth, throat and esophagus before it reaches the intestines.
Effects of THC on nausea and vomiting
The most common symptoms of nausea and vomiting are dizziness and dry mouth. These symptoms are linked to the lack of saliva that is produced by the brain when you are sick. It is possible that the THC in your vape pen could be used to alleviate these symptoms, even for people that do not have digestive issues. However, it has been shown that THC does not reduce vomiting or nausea in cancer patients that are experiencing chemotherapy-related toxicity.
