Key Takeaways
- Both THC and CBD may help with nausea.
- Evidence suggests that THC is more effective at relieving nausea.
- Patient reports indicate that strains like Lemon Haze, Wedding Crasher, and Girl Scout Cookies help.
When nerve endings in your stomach or small intestine are irritated, signals sent to the brain stimulate feelings of nausea.1 Using cannabis for nausea may often be a fast-acting remedy for these queasy feelings.
Considering the wide range of cannabis strains and cannabinoid concentrations available, it can be confusing to choose one, especially when you're dealing with nausea and just want some relief. Finding the right cannabinoids for nausea can make a significant difference in how you feel.
Which Cannabinoids Help Most With Nausea?
When it comes to managing nausea, not all cannabinoids are created equal. Research has shown that specific cannabinoids, including THC and CBD, can be particularly effective in alleviating nausea.
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is one of the most abundant chemical compounds or cannabinoids created by the cannabis plant. It causes a high sensation, with experiences ranging from body relaxation to mental stimulation.
THC offers anti-vomiting and anti-nausea properties for medical use. In pharmaceuticals, natural and synthetic THC formulate several drugs to suppress nausea. Their uses include treatment for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy who often experience debilitating nausea as a side effect.
Two medicines that are synthetic analogs of THC, nabilone (Cesamet) and dronabinol (Marinol), manage chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Nabilone, for instance, has been found to result in fewer vomiting episodes compared to non-THC dopamine receptor antagonists like prescription metoclopramide.
Dronabinol has similarly been effective as an anti-emetic and later found use as an appetite stimulant. Moreover, in cancer patients, oral Δ9-THC significantly reduced nausea and vomiting compared to placebo controls.
Researchers find a combination of THC and CBD (cannabidiol) also works to combat nausea. Sativex, an under-the-tongue spray administered cannabis-based medicine containing delta 9-THC and CBD in a 1:1 ratio, has shown promise in controlling delayed chemotherapy-induced nausea when used alongside standard anti-emetic therapies.2
CBD, another abundant cannabinoid, is known for its non-intoxicating properties and can work to alleviate nausea. While CBD alone might not be as potent as THC in reducing nausea, it plays a complementary role when used in combination with THC. CBD's effectiveness comes from its interaction with serotonin receptors, which are known to influence nausea and vomiting.
Beyond THC and CBD, other minor cannabinoids like CBDA and CBDV have shown potential in treating nausea. Researchers found CBDA has demonstrated anti-nausea effects at low doses in mice through its agonist activity at central nervous system receptors.3
First found in an extract from Thai cannabis extract called Meao, CBDV may also hold promise for treating nausea and vomiting.4
As we learn more about the many different cannabinoids in cannabis, an even broader spectrum of cannabinoids could be beneficial in managing nausea, going beyond the therapeutic possibilities of THC and CBD alone.
Patients' experiences with cannabis for nausea are generally positive, although individual responses can vary. Many find that strains with a balanced ratio of THC to CBD are particularly effective. Used appropriately, both personal testimonies and clinical feedback suggest that cannabis can significantly improve the quality of life for those suffering from chronic nausea.
Which Cannabinoid Concentrations and Ratios Help Most With Nausea?
When it comes to alleviating nausea, the concentration and ratio of cannabinoids in a cannabis product determine how effective it is. Research shows that certain combinations of THC and CBD, as well as their acidic precursors, may be particularly beneficial for managing nausea.
A balanced ratio of THC to CBD helps to reduce nausea, especially in chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). A 1:1 ratio of THC and CBD prevented both early and delayed phases of nausea and vomiting in chemotherapy patients. The study highlighted that patients who received this combination had lower CINV on day five than those who received a placebo.5
Another clinical trial tested Sativex (nabiximols), an oral-spray cannabis-based medicine containing equal parts of THC and CBD. When used alongside standard anti-emetic therapies, Sativex controlled delayed chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, further supporting the effectiveness of a balanced THC ratio.2
In addition to the well-known cannabinoids for nausea, like THC and CBD, minor cannabinoids and their acidic forms also play a role in nausea management.
Another study looked at the effects of combining very low doses of CBD and THC, as well as CBDA and THCA, on acute nausea in animal models. Even small amounts of these cannabinoids were effective in reducing nausea symptoms. Although there are prescription anti-emetic meds available, the researchers encourage more clinical trials to determine if using cannabinoids along with existing anti-emetics can improve the outcome for patients.6
The evidence suggests that a 1:1 ratio of THC to CBD is particularly effective for managing nausea, especially in patients undergoing chemotherapy. Additionally, the inclusion of minor cannabinoids like CBDA and THCA, even in low doses, may enhance the anti-nausea effects of cannabis. Patients considering using cannabinoids for nausea should look for a 1:1 ratio cannabis product for the best results in nausea relief.5,6
A serious medical challenge for patients with ongoing nausea is the suppression of appetite. It’s difficult to get adequate nutrition when you are queasy and don’t feel like eating. Cannabis, especially taken orally, acts as an appetite stimulant for some, increasing the desire for food. While this is a benefit for many, use caution when dosing. Too much cannabis can cause nausea, vomiting, or other side effects, also known as greening out. For nausea, optimal dosing levels occur when symptoms subside.
How to Choose Strains for Nausea Based on Cannabinoid Content
Choosing the best cannabis strain for nausea can be a game-changer, but it requires some knowledge about cannabinoid content and how different strains can affect your symptoms.
Research suggests that a 1:1 ratio of THC to CBD is particularly effective for nausea. New users may want to avoid strains high in THC and focus on non-inhalable products with THCA and CBDA.5,6 This balanced ratio may help manage nausea while minimizing some of the intoxicating effects of THC, which can be beneficial for new users.
When purchasing cannabis products, always ask for a certificate of analysis (COA). A COA provides a detailed breakdown of the cannabinoid content, helping ensure the product has the desired ratio and concentrations of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids. In addition, the product should have been tested for contaminants like pesticides and heavy metals, which should also be available on the COA.
Experienced users may find relief from a variety of cultivars. Users often suggest popular families such as Kush, Haze, and Diesel for managing nausea. Since individual responses can vary, finding the most effective strain may take some experimentation.
Kush varieties are often known for their relaxing effects, which may help soothe the stomach and reduce nausea. Haze strains may offer a balance of uplifting and relaxing effects, potentially making them helpful in managing nausea while keeping you functional. Diesel strains, often energizing, may be beneficial if you need nausea relief without sedation.
The 5 Best Strains for Nausea Based on Cannabinoid Content
Choosing the right cannabis strain for nausea can make a significant difference in managing your symptoms. Here are five top-rated strains for nausea based on their cannabinoid content and ratios.
Tropicana Cookies is a strain with a significant amount of THC, averaging around 21%. This concentration of THC may offer strong anti-emetic properties.
Patients report feeling relaxed, euphoric and uplifted when using Tropicana Cookies. These effects may help counteract the discomfort and anxiety associated with nausea. However, it’s important to note that this high THC strain may also cause nausea, dizziness, and paranoia in some users, especially when consumed in large amounts. Therefore, small, well-spaced doses are recommended to minimize these potential side effects. Consumers say this strain is suitable for evening or nighttime use.
Bubble Gum has a moderate THC content of around 15% to 19%. This strain is known for its soothing effects and is commonly used to alleviate inflammation, pain, and nausea.
Bubble Gum may also contain a small amount of CBG, a minor cannabinoid that may contribute to its therapeutic effects. CBG is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce the underlying causes of nausea and discomfort.3
Patients using Bubble Gum report feelings of euphoria, happiness, and relaxation, which can help distract from the discomfort of nausea.
However, like many strains, Bubble Gum may cause dry eyes and dry mouth, so users should stay hydrated. The potentially calming and uplifting effects and antiemetic properties may make Bubble Gum a suitable choice for nausea relief, with both a mind and body high.
Lemon Haze, a strain with 20% THC and minor amounts of CBG and CBD, is said to manage nausea while providing uplifting and energetic effects. In addition to the anti-nausea effects of THC, CBG may help soothe digestive discomfort.3 CBD may bring additional synergistic effects, potentially boosting the anti-inflammatory response to help alleviate this underlying cause of nausea.7 Lemon Haze is often reported to be an appetite stimulant, making it helpful for chronic nausea.
The strain’s reported uplifting effects may combat the lethargy and depression often associated with chronic nausea. However, like many high-THC strains, Lemon Haze may cause dry mouth, dizziness, and paranoia in some users, so start with a small dose and gradually increase as needed.
Wedding Crasher is a hybrid strain with 20% THC and 0.8% CBG. Although it is known for relief from nausea, pain, and stress, it also can stimulate appetite, which is essential for chronic nausea patients. CBG also quells stomach distress to reduce nausea.
Users of Wedding Crasher report feeling focused, social, and happy, which can be particularly beneficial for those experiencing nausea, as these uplifting effects help distract from discomfort. The strain’s potential ability to boost mood and energy levels may also combat lethargy and depression often associated with chronic nausea. However, possible side effects like headaches, dry eyes, and dizziness mean it’s best to start with a small dose and adjust as needed.
Girl Scout Cookies, also known as GSC, is a renowned hybrid strain with a high THC content of 28% and 1% CBG. It provides a range of effects, making it a popular choice for medical cannabis patients dealing with nausea, pain, and anxiety.
The high THC content in Girl Scout Cookies is likely the primary reason for its effectiveness in managing nausea. CBG may bring anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective benefits, help soothe digestive discomfort, and further reduce nausea while stimulating appetite, which may benefit patients experiencing nausea-induced loss of appetite.3
Users of Girl Scout Cookies report feelings of happiness, euphoria, and relaxation. The strain’s ability to enhance mood and stimulate appetite can help combat the lethargy and loss of appetite often associated with chronic nausea. However, potential side effects like dry mouth, dry eyes, and paranoia mean it’s essential to start with a small dose and adjust as needed.
References
- Singh P, Yoon SS, Kuo B. Nausea: a review of pathophysiology and therapeutics. Therap Adv Gastroenterol. 2016;9(1):98-112. doi:10.1177/1756283X15618131 ↩︎
- Sharkey KA, Darmani NA, Parker LA. Regulation of nausea and vomiting by cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system. Eur J Pharmacol. 2014;722:134-146. doi:10.1016/j.ejphar.2013.09.068 ↩︎
- Walsh KB, McKinney AE, Holmes AE. Minor Cannabinoids: Biosynthesis, Molecular Pharmacology and Potential Therapeutic Uses. Frontiers in Pharmacology. 2021;12. doi:doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2021.777804 ↩︎
- Russo EB, Marcu J. Cannabis Pharmacology: The Usual Suspects and a Few Promising Leads. Cannabinoid Pharmacology. 2017;80:67-134. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/bs.apha.2017.03.004 ↩︎
- Sukpiriyagul A, Chartchaiyarerk R, Tabtipwon P, et al. Oral Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC):Cannabinoid (CBD) Cannabis Extract Adjuvant for Reducing Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting (CINV): A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Trial. International Journal of Women’s Health. 2023;15(2023):1345-1352. doi:https://doi.org/10.2147/ijwh.s401938 ↩︎
- Rock EM, Sullivan MT, Pravato S, Pratt M, Limebeer CL, Parker LA. Effect of combined doses of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid and cannabidiolic acid on acute nausea in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Psychopharmacology/Psychopharmacologia. 2020;237(3):901-914. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s00213-019-05428-4 ↩︎
- Rock EM, Limebeer CL, Pertwee RG, Mechoulam R, Parker LA. Therapeutic Potential of Cannabidiol, Cannabidiolic Acid, and Cannabidiolic Acid Methyl Ester as Treatments for Nausea and Vomiting. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res. 2021;6(4):266-274. doi:10.1089/can.2021.0041 ↩︎
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