Anywhere from 50 to 66% of individuals will have to deal with hemorrhoids in their life. However, for the general population, specifically the younger generation, hemorrhoids hardly cross the mind. The primary reason for this is that it is most common to develop hemorrhoids between 45 and 65 years old.
More and more people with hemorrhoids, especially in cannabis legal states, have reported turning towards medical marijuana.
Although some cases can be serious and require quick medical attention, hemorrhoids themselves are usually self-diagnosable and predominantly require extra care and caution, along with adequate time for healing. Regarding pain, it is possible to use a prescription painkiller from a doctor. Still, more and more people with hemorrhoids, especially in cannabis legal states, have reported turning towards medical marijuana to diminish their pain and discomfort.
Keep reading to discover more information about hemorrhoids and how cannabis can address them.
Want to experience the qualities of THC-A flower? The amazing brand Premium Jane just launched their new line, including strains like OG Kush, Purple Cream, and Blue Dream Pie. Averaging 23% THC-A, there’s so much to love with these flowers. Try them today to get 20% off using WayofLeaf’s exclusive coupon code: THCAWOL
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are essentially just the swelling of veins in the lower region of the anus or rectum. If the walls of the blood vessels get too thin, they can cause extreme irritation within the body, especially during bowel movements. Hemorrhoids are classified as either internal or external, and external hemorrhoids typically produce worse symptoms and more significant pain.
It is important to note that hemorrhoids are very rarely dangerous and often clear up after a couple of weeks. Still, those with hemorrhoids should let their doctor or medical practitioner know within a timely manner so that they can take action right away. Some hemorrhoids can be extremely painful or simply will not go away. These need to be addressed by a doctor.
Internal hemorrhoids cannot be seen or felt, for they are deeper in the rectum than their external counterpart. Because of the location, they typically do not hurt because there are actually few nerve endings within the deeper region of the rectum.
On the other hand, external hemorrhoids are much more painful and can typically be seen as a pink, purple or blueish bump by the opening of the anus. In serious cases, blood clots can sometimes occur within external hemorrhoids, giving them a blueish purple color.
Hemorrhoid Causes and Symptoms
Various factors can cause hemorrhoids, ranging from genetics to standing or sitting for very long periods.
Individuals who have family members who have had hemorrhoids are at greater risk of developing them and those who have extra weight, such as those who suffer from obesity or even those who are pregnant.
Sitting and standing for long durations of time frequently can increase the risk, as can straining during a physically challenging activity (lifting heavy objects, etc.). Furthermore, pushing intensely during bowel movements can cause them to arise, or if you are dealing with perpetual constipation or diarrhea, specifically if it will not clear up for long periods of time.
Some hemorrhoids never cause any symptoms at all, and one may not know they have them. On the other hand, some do experience uncomfortable or unpleasant symptoms. Typical symptoms of internal and external hemorrhoids include:
- Bleeding
- Itching or pain in the region around the anus
- Blood coming from the anus after using the bathroom
- Seeing/feeling wet pink, purple, or blue bumps around the opening of the anus
If experiencing rectal bleeding, it is especially important to see a doctor because this symptom can be because of some other serious medical conditions other than hemorrhoids.
Conventional (Non-Cannabis) Hemorrhoid Treatments
Many cases of hemorrhoids can be cured with at-home methods that a doctor can recommend. Hot or cold bath soaks around the anus can take away the pain and some swelling, and a topical cream can relieve itching.
If the hemorrhoids occur due to constipation, consuming a fiber supplement, such as psyllium can cause the body to move towards a more regular or frequent excretion cycle. If all at-home remedies seem to fail, a doctor can execute two different medical procedures to attempt a shrinking of the hemorrhoid(s).
If at-home remedies fail, a doctor can execute two different types of medical procedures to treat hemorrhoid.
Rubber band ligation is one of these procedures, where the doctor ties a rubber band around the hemorrhoid, cutting off its circulation so that it shrinks in size. Additionally, a medical practitioner can conduct an injection therapy (sclerotherapy), where chemicals are directly injected into the hemorrhoid, causing it to decrease in size.
If the pain becomes especially unbearable, a doctor might prescribe some pain medication to reduce some of the discomfort.
Medical Marijuana and Hemorrhoids
Although cannabis itself cannot prevent hemorrhoids from occurring, this medicinal plant can assist with pain relief, where conventional medications often produce many adverse side effects or dependency issues.
Those who don’t want to rely on opiates, for instance, might be able to find enough relief with cannabis to avoid pharmaceutical pain killers altogether. Additionally, some of the marijuana strains listed below can also diminish inflammation, which is very much related to hemorrhoids. Often, having hemorrhoids can be detrimental to one’s state of mind, making it difficult to keep stress and anxiety down and sometimes encouraging depression to arise.
Some marijuana strains can alleviate mood disorders and decrease stress or anxiety, making them suitable for those who are having a difficult experience with their hemorrhoids. Lastly, because of the onset of sometimes constant pain or discomfort, having a hemorrhoid can make falling asleep difficult, sometimes leading to insomnia. Some heavier, indica-dominant cannabis strains can melt the body and lead to deep sedation, beneficial for patients who find it challenging to get rest.
5 Best Marijuana Strains for Hemorrhoids
1. Cannatonic (Hybrid)
This marijuana strain is number 1 on the list for several reasons. The hybrid strain Cannatonic is not only incredible at acting as a remedy against pain and inflammation, but it also calms down stress levels and allows for one to maintain a clear head.
Most of all, it is easy to function and go about day-to-day tasks with Cannatonic, even if smoking or consuming it every few hours to manage symptoms, because of its high CBD levels, which are typically double its THC levels.
Although this marijuana does still have a THC presence, it isn’t an overwhelming amount and instead acts as a pleasant way to numb pain. Cannatonic is considered one of the world’s premier medical marijuana strains.
THC: around 6% or lower
CBD: around 6-17%
Pleasant flavor, with earthy, sweet, and citrus notes, followed by hints of pine and musk.
2. Critical Mass (Indica)
A potent and rich indica strain, Critical Mass makes it an ideal nighttime or before bed marijuana strain for hemorrhoid patients who would like to fall asleep in peace with decreased pain or discomfort.
With the genetic combination of Afghani indica and Skunk No. 1 hybrid, this marijuana won’t sedate the user heavily like some indicas tend to do. Instead, it may leave the user feeling happy and relaxed, free of stress and pain. Eventually, it can cause the eyelids to become heavy and tired.
Critical Mass can also reduce inflammation within the body, which can assist with hemorrhoids. Best of all, this cannabis has an intense THC content, making just a little go a very long way, with the added bonus of a small but still significant CBD content.
THC: around 20%
CBD: around 5%
Rich flavor profile and a smooth feeling hit, with notes of honey, skunk, and citrus, and sweet, pungent, earthy tones.
3. Harlequin (Sativa)
The sativa dominant Harlequin strain is a rarity in the marijuana world, with an almost constant expression of a 5:2 CBD to THC ratio. This feature causes it to generate a clear-headed, stimulating high that not only cuts the possible paranoia and anxiousness of THC but also adds to the strain’s painkilling and restorative abilities.
Harlequin is a genetic combination of three potent and well-known sativa marijuana strains, including Colombian Gold, Thai, and Swiss sativa. It acts to resolve pain (including chronic), inflammation, stress, anxiety, or depression, all of which are possible with hemorrhoids.
THC: around 4-7%
CBD: around 8-16%
Presents a variety of tastes, ranging from earthy musk and woodsy pine to sweet and juicy mango.
4. Mazar I Sharif (Indica)
One of the world’s tallest growing cannabis strains, Mazar I Sharif, is legendary and originally grew in Northern Afghanistan, reaching 4 meters or more in height if in the right, fertile conditions. Surprisingly enough, even with its massive height, this marijuana is classified as an indica, and it is quite a heavy-hitting one.
With its potent THC content and pure, landrace genes derived from Afghani indica, Mazar I Sharif is highly intoxicating, producing even a narcotic-like effect if over-consumed, making it potent medicine for those suffering from physical pain and inflammation.
Additionally, it is terrific at alleviating insomnia or any difficulties with falling asleep. For hemorrhoid patients, this marijuana strain can numb any pain and fully relax the body and promote healthy sleep patterns and restful nights, which isn’t always possible with this medical condition.
THC: around 15-23%
CBD: around 1-1.5%
A traditional marijuana strain with spicy, herbal tastes and an earthy, woody smoke that is the ideal flavor for those who don’t desire a sweet cannabis experience.
5. Jasmine (Hybrid)
Developed by leading Israeli cannabis supplier Tikun Olam, Jasmine offers an indica dominant smoke wrapped into a hybrid classified strain.
Originally bred to be used for patients with insomnia, Jasmine has proven to be especially medicinal for an extensive range of ailments and difficulties, including inflammation and pain (prevalent for those with hemorrhoids) and combating nausea and indigestion. This cannabis is well-rounded and trustworthy, particularly for medical marijuana patients.
THC: around 14-16%
CBD: unknown
A unique and predominantly floral flavor profile, involving hints of lavender and rose, all melting into a sweet and smooth hitting cannabis.
Final Thoughts About Marijuana and Hemorrhoids
If you or a loved one suffers from the uncomfortable symptoms of hemorrhoids, medical marijuana may offer a helpful alternative in terms of finding relief from pain and discomfort. However, none of the above information should be considered medical advice. The consumption of cannabis is the sole responsibility of the user, and discretion should always be taken.
Want to experience the qualities of THC-A flower? The amazing brand Premium Jane just launched their new line, including strains like OG Kush, Purple Cream, and Blue Dream Pie. Averaging 23% THC-A, there’s so much to love with these flowers. Try them today to get 20% off using WayofLeaf’s exclusive coupon code: THCAWOL
![Can Cannabis Help Celiac Disease? [Explained]](https://wayofleaf.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/wol-banner-can-cannabis-help-celiac-disease-640x225.jpg)
![5 Best Cannabis Strains for Appetite Disorders [Update]](https://wayofleaf.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/wol-banner-5-best-cannabis-strains-for-appetite-disorders-640x225.jpg)
![How to Use Marijuana for Pain Relief [EXPLAINED]](https://wayofleaf.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/mj_how-to-use-marijuana-for-pain-relief-explained_1920-640x225.jpg)
