Best Strains for IBS

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be a sensitive and frustrating condition to manage. Fortunately, certain strains show potential for IBS relief. However, finding the right variety often requires trial and error, and discussing symptoms like cramping, diarrhea, or constipation with a budtender isn’t always easy. This has led patients online to share recommendations and search for answers discreetly.

Many patients wonder if cannabis even helps with digestive conditions. If so, what are the best strains for IBS based on cannabinoids, terpenes, and patient feedback?

Can Weed Help with IBS?

Cannabis may help some patients manage IBS symptoms by working with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS plays a role in digestion, including gut movements, inflammation, and pain control. A study on dronabinol, a synthetic form of THC, shows that it helped relax the colon and ease pain. This could suggest that cannabis may be helpful for patients with cramps and spasms from IBS.¹

Cannabis has also helped control bowel movements in people with conditions like multiple sclerosis. Research suggests it might offer relief for those with diarrhea-predominant IBS. THC, in particular, may slow down the digestive system by reducing muscle contractions and limiting intestinal secretions. However, these findings are still based on smaller studies.²

CBD might help in other ways. The doses of CBD for IBS used in several studies range from 20 mg to 500 mg per day. Research shows it may reduce gut inflammation and improve movement in the intestines. As a result, it could help with constipation-predominant IBS (IBS-C). There’s also early evidence that combining CBD with supplements, like fish oil, may strengthen the intestinal barrier and improve symptoms.³

Even though cannabis has shown potential, everyone’s experience is different. Some patients find relief, while others see little improvement. It’s also important to remember that certain edibles might worsen symptoms, like causing constipation.

Which Terpenes Help With IBS?

Some terpenes may help with IBS symptoms by easing inflammation, relaxing muscles, or reducing stomach pain.

One promising terpene is geraniol, used in a double-blind, randomized clinical trial specifically for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Participants treated with geraniol showed a significant reduction in their IBS symptom severity scores. Overall, the terpene shows shows antispasmodic and gut-modulating effects. This makes it potentially helpful for IBS, especially mixed-type IBS (IBS-M).⁴

Another helpful terpene is pinene, known, in part, for its anti-inflammatory properties. Pinene may help reduce inflammation in the gut, offering potential relief for some IBS symptoms.⁵

Alongside pinene, humulene may offer anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. These could ease bloating and gut pain, among providing several other benefits.⁶

Myrcene is often highlighted for its muscle-relaxing and pain-relieving effects. It may be one of the best terpenes for stomach pain. The terpene may help reduce cramps and abdominal discomfort, among several other benefits.⁷

Lastly, β-caryophyllene may interact with CB2 receptors in our endocannabinoid system. It's often responsible for a cannabis strain's anti-inflammatory benefits. Research shows that it also has pain-reducing and gastroprotective effects, which could be beneficial to IBS patients.⁸

Research also suggests that a combination of terpenes may be more effective for symptom relief than isolated terpenes alone. Together, these terpenes may enhance each therapeutic effect of their cannabis strain.⁵ The best strains for IBS may contain one or a combination of these terpenes.

How to Choose Strains for IBS

Every patient's symptoms differ, so the best strains for IBS vary. Three key factors are terpene content, cannabinoid profile, and how well a strain aligns with individual symptoms. The right combination may deliver an entourage effect that intensifies symptom relief.

To find the terpene profile and cannabinoid concentration of a strain, start by checking the product's certificate of analysis (COA). However, it’s not always easily accessible. Knowing the name of the strain can be just as helpful. You can use NuggMD's strain directory to get a general idea of the most present terpenes.

Look for soothing terpenes like caryophyllene, which may help reduce inflammation. Strains with noticeable levels of CBD may also help support gut motility and manage abdominal discomfort.⁹

Finding the right strain may take trial and error, as individual responses vary. Some patients find that high-THC strains can worsen anxiety or gut sensitivity, so it’s wise to start with lower doses. Track symptoms and adjust based on personal experience to refine the selection process. 

The 5 Best Strains for IBS

These cultivars stand out for their cannabinoids, terpenes, and potential effects on IBS symptoms. Through past patient reviews and current research, below are some possible best strains for IBS.

Platinum Cookies

Also known as PGSC, Platinum Cookies is a cross between Durban Poison and OG Kush, two high-caliber legends. With emerald green leaves and dusty trichomes, it offers a sweet, spicy, and pungently herbal aroma. A THC-dominant cultivar, Platinum Cookies also has a terpene blend of caryophyllene, myrcene, and limonene. This combination may play a role in symptom relief. Some note that it provides pain relief while reducing inflammation, so it may help ease stomach pain and cramping.

Blackberry Kush

Nicknamed "BBK," Blackberry Kush combines Bubba Kush and Blackberry genetics. Alongside its purple buds, Blackberry Kush is a half-fruity, half-gassy concoction that melds hashy and jet fuel-like flavors. Blackberry Kush blends THC with limonene, myrcene, caryophyllene, and pinene. This combination offers relaxing, anti-inflammatory effects that might soothe abdominal discomfort.

Grape Ape

Grape Ape is a pungent cross between Afghani, Mendocino Purps, and Skunk #1. Its fruity terpene profile features a powerful combination of caryophyllene, pinene, and myrcene. The fruitiness has a subtle hint of earthiness, making it sweet yet savory in its flavor comp. This THC-rich strain may have upwards of 4% CBG and is as flavorful as visually striking. With its terpene and cannabinoid profiles, Grape Ape may be an excellent choice for IBS-M and IBS-C patients.

Ghost OG

Ghost OG is an award-winning cultivar that crosses an OG Kush phenotype with Joe’s OG Kush. Its terpene profile boasts limonene, pinene, and myrcene, giving it a citrusy, pine-like aroma with hints of sweetness. The strain’s cone-shaped nugs shine with frosty trichomes, adding to its tropical skunk appeal. With 18% THC, Ghost OG offers a calming, cerebral experience, often praised for reducing mental and physical stress. Patients with IBS may find that its relaxing and anti-inflammatory effects ease abdominal pain.

Gorilla Cookies

Gorilla Cookies blends the best traits of Gorilla Glue #4 with Thin Mint Girl Scout Cookies. Its terpene profile features caryophyllene and myrcene for a nutty, earthy aroma with subtle menthol notes. With high concentrations of THC, the fluffy, resin-coated buds may offer uplifting and calming effects. Gorilla Cookies may help with pain, nausea, and stress, which may help manage IBS-related discomfort.

References

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The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.