Exploring Alternative Treatments for Crohn's Disease: An Insight into Medical Cannabis and Probiotics

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the gastrointestinal tract. Traditional treatments often fall short, leading some patients to explore alternative options. This article delves into two promising alternatives: medical cannabis and probiotics. We'll explore their benefits, considerations, and personal experiences.

Medical Cannabis: An Increasingly Popular Option

Since its legalization in the UK in 2018, medical cannabis has gained recognition as a treatment for Crohn's disease. Several clinics, such as Releaf, have seen success in helping patients manage their symptoms.

A survey conducted by Releaf revealed that 90% of IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease) patients experienced improved symptoms with cannabis-based treatments. The clinic cites the anti-inflammatory properties and symptom-relieving effects of cannabis, particularly for those who have not found relief with conventional treatments like steroids or immunosuppressants.

Personal Experience with Probiotics

Contrary to the positive results seen with cannabis, this article also shares a personal journey with probiotics. Having been diagnosed with Crohn's disease at 16, the author embarked on a journey to find alternatives to pharmaceuticals.

The author's belief in the chemical industry's motives for prescribing ineffective treatments without genuine interest in patients' well-being led to a trial of various remedies. From iodine and colloidal silver, to a diet of almonds and Havarti cheese, none produced significant relief.

Primal Defense Probiotics: A Turning Point

Ultimately, the author found relief in probiotic supplements from Garden of Life, specifically a product called Primal Defense, which contained 13 different strains of good bacteria and something called HSOs (Homeostatic Soil Organisms), often humorously referred to as "dirt."

The author tried the probiotics after a course of antibiotics. Over several months, the condition improved, and Crohn's was in remission. Flare-ups occurred three more times over two years, though each was milder than the last, and the disease remained in remission for a decade.

Biological and Chemical Theories

The author proposes a biological hypothesis: there might be something naturally present in the gut that, when overabundant, triggers an immune response. This hypothesis aligns with the theory that the immune system fails to completely eliminate the issue, leading to chronic inflammation characteristic of Crohn's disease.

The author also suggests a possible connection between the rise of Crohn's and the advent of processed foods, particularly pesticides and other chemicals used in food processing. This theory is supported by the fact that Crohn's is more common in areas with extensive food processing but not in regions that do not process food in the same manner.

Final Reflections on Health and Medicine

In conclusion, the author emphasizes the importance of being an active participant in one's health journey. Patients should not blindly follow medical advice but instead do their own research, seek multiple opinions, and make informed decisions based on evidence. Trust in doctors and healthcare providers is vital, but understanding the full picture of one's health condition is equally important.

Ultimately, anyone's journey with Crohn's is unique, and the effectiveness of treatments can vary. However, the experiences discussed here serve as powerful examples of the types of alternative treatments available and their potential positive impact on those suffering from Crohn's disease.