We’ve all heard the phrase, “the cold just needs to work itself out of your system.” It’s true that cold and flu both make our lives miserable, but there’s really nothing more to do but wait them out. However, treating the symptoms can definitely bring some relief. There’s been some debate over how effective cannabis can be for this purpose. The jury is still out on the matter, but here’s what we already know.
As per research, cannabis or weed has been known to have anti-inflammatory properties. Most discomfort associated with illnesses like cold and flu is due to inflammation. While cannabis cannot cure the condition itself, there is enough evidence to show that it can help alleviate some symptoms, such as sinus pains and muscular aches.
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD) are the two natural compounds found in the Cannabis sativa plant. CBD can be extracted from hemp or cannabis both. Both THC and CBD are said to have anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxant properties. However, while THC and CBD share the same chemical and molecular structure, the way they affect the body is very different. THC has psychoactive effects on the body, which gives recreational weed smokers the high they seek. On the other hand, CBD does not give a similar high and is generally used for medicinal purposes. CBD can be used for treating problems like depression and anxiety.
Smoking or Vaping – The Better Option While Sick
Since smoking involves burning the plant and then inhaling the smoke, it is natural that the smoke can irritate the throat and the nasal airways. Smoking weed is likely to worsen your cough instead of relieving it. Smoking weed while sick with a raging throat infection and mucus lining your airways will therefore not be the best option.
However, vaping is a viable alternative in such situations. Since there is no burning or charring, no irritation causing compounds enter the lungs when you inhale the vapors. Thus vaping is a better alternative to smoking as a way to consume weed while sick.
Weed Edibles and Oils
Pure CBD is used in the form of oils and tinctures to soothe the body and ease discomfort. Since CBD doesn’t produce the same psychoactive reactions as THC, it is generally consumed in the form of teas or tinctures that can be ingested orally.
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Risks Involved in Smoking Weed While Sick
An important point to keep in mind about using weed while sick is that if you take any over-the-counter (OTC) medication to treat cold or flu symptoms, you should take particular care. This is because some OTC medicines can change the body’s response to the psychoactive components of cannabis and cause stronger than usual reactions. It is essential to keep in mind how the medication might combine with THC before smoking weed.
Another aspect to keep in mind if you use weed while sick is spreading your germs to friends and family if they share your joint or bong.
It is advisable to use your discretion and act with care in such situations.
