By Luke Sumpter


Gastritis has numerous causes, from bacterial infection to excess alcohol intake. Conventional medicine has developed some effective ways to treat the condition, including various medications and lifestyle changes. But as researchers continue to uncover the role of the endocannabinoid system in the gut, interested parties are wondering whether cannabis has any effect on gastritis symptoms.

What Is Gastritis?

The term “gastritis” encompasses several conditions that all share one characteristic: inflammation of the stomach lining.

As you might remember from biology class, the stomach contains highly acidic gastric juices that help to break down the food that you eat. To protect your tissues against this potent fluid, the stomach features a lining of mucus (called the mucosa). Under normal circumstances, this specialised layer simply fulfils its purpose with no issues. However, events that damage the stomach lining or cause it to become inflamed trigger gastritis. The painful symptoms of this condition mean patients quickly become serious about finding a valid solution.

  • Types of Gastritis

Though there are several types of gastritis, they all autumn into one of two categories: acute or chronic. Acute bouts of the condition are often triggered by irritants or infection, and are characterised by sharp bursts of pain that settle quickly. In contrast, chronic gastritis lasts over long periods, involves a dull and long-lasting ache, and can develop into more serious conditions if left untreated. There are a host of different causes of gastritis, the most common of which we examine below.

- Helicobacter pylori Infection

This gram-negative spiral bacterium is the most common cause of gastritis across the world. Disturbingly, this microbial species developed its odd shape as a means of penetrating the lining of the stomach. However, it leaves most people feeling unaffected.

H. pylori has a prolific reputation, and it’s thought that around half the world’s population has this infection—most people simply don’t realise. Researchers aren’t entirely sure why so many people don’t show symptoms, but it likely has something to do with innate resistance within asymptomatic people. Those that aren’t so lucky often develop gastritis and stomach ulcers when exposed to this pathogen.

- Other Pathogens

H. pylori isn’t the only microbe that can infect the gut lining and cause inflammation and gastritis. Other organisms that can trigger the condition include species of mycobacterium, herpes simplex, and parasites.

- Autoimmune Gastritis

Autoimmunity occurs when immune cells start to attack healthy cells within the body, mistaking them for threatening invaders. This self-inflicted cellular assault manifests in a wide range of conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease, and thyroiditis. This malfunction in the immune system can also cause autoimmune gastritis.

In this condition, immune cells target and destroy parietal cells[1] (the cells in the stomach wall that secrete acid). This condition mostly shows up in young women and can lead to iron and vitamin B12 deficiency.

Types of Gastritis

- Crohn’s Disease

As a type of inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s causes inflammatory flare-ups in the digestive tract that lead to unpleasant symptoms such as pain, fatigue, and diarrhoea. Crohn’s patients are more at risk of developing a type of gastritis that doesn’t stem from an H. pylori infection.

- Aspirin

Have you ever taken anti-inflammatories and felt kind of queasy? While medications such as aspirin help to take the edge off aches and pains, acute haemorrhagic gastritis occurs in 50–80% of all patients[2] that take the drug. How does aspirin cause this bleeding? Researchers aren’t 100% sure, but it likely involves physical erosion of the gut barrier and the diffusion of hydrogen ions across the mucosa.

- Excess Alcohol

Drinking too much alcohol too frequently can result in alcoholic gastritis. Over time, large and consistent quantities of alcohol begin to irritate the gut lining, sparking inflammation and subsequent gastritis.

  • What Are the Symptoms of Gastritis?

Despite the varying underlying causes of gastritis, the different forms result in similar symptoms, including:

Recurring stomach upset Nausea
Vomiting Abdominal pain
Indigestion Burning feeling in the stomach
Reduced appetite Hiccups
Vomiting blood Black stool
  • Is Gastritis Dangerous?

Thankfully, gastritis doesn’t cause long-term issues in most people. With the appropriate treatment, patients can expect to return to full health. However, complications can make the condition dangerous. In some instances, gastritis can develop into more serious conditions such as stomach ulcers, and increase the risk of stomach cancer.

Current Treatments for Gastritis

There are various treatments available for patients with gastritis, from medications that reduce stomach acid production to simple lifestyle changes. In what follows, we explore the most common in greater detail.

  • Medications

Patients are prescribed different medications for gastritis depending on the cause of the condition:

  • Antibiotics: Antibiotics such as amoxicillin are used to wipe out H. pylori infections
  • Proton pump inhibitors: These drugs work by blocking parts of cells that produce acid
  • Histamine blockers: Also known as acid blockers, these drugs decrease the amount of acid churned out in the stomach
  • Antacids: Antacids are prescribed to neutralise stomach acid and help manage stomach pain
Current Treatments for Gastritis
  • Lifestyle Adjustments

On top of medications, doctors also advise patients to make several lifestyle changes to reduce the symptoms of gastritis:

  • Avoid triggering foods: Certain foods can irritate the gut lining, including spicy and fatty dishes, so it’s best to avoid them
  • Consume less alcohol: Cut down or completely abstain from alcohol
  • Eating schedule: Eat smaller meals, but more frequently throughout the day
Current Treatments for Gastritis

Cannabis and Gastritis: Is There an Association?

Patients have plenty of options already, so where does cannabis stand when it comes to gastritis? Unfortunately, we don’t know. Without clinical trials testing isolated cannabinoids and full-spectrum extracts in a randomised placebo-controlled process, a definitive answer doesn’t exist.

However, ongoing research around cannabinoids and the gut offers some interesting insight. Adding to that, scientists have made some headway in understanding the role of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), the main target of phytocannabinoids, in the gut.

  • The Link Between the Endocannabinoid System and Gastritis

To get an idea of what we can expect from future research regarding cannabis and gastritis, it helps to know a thing or two about the ECS. This system helps to keep all of the other systems of the body in a state of homeostasis, or biological balance. You’ll find the ECS facilitating this balancing act in the central nervous system, immune system, skin, bones, heart, connective tissues, and digestive system.

This expansive regulatory network features three main parts: receptors, signalling molecules (endocannabinoids), and enzymes that create and break down endocannabinoids. It just so happens that chemicals found in cannabis (and a host of other plants), known as phytocannabinoids, share a similar molecular structure to the endocannabinoids made by our bodies. This enables them to interact with ECS receptors and create similar changes within target cells.

Endocannabinoids play key functions in the digestive system, including those involved in gut motility[3], interactions with gut microbes, inflammation, and gut permeability. Researchers are also exploring the role of ECS receptors and enzymes[4] as targets to reduce the development of gastrointestinal mucosal lesions, haemorrhage, and inflammation.

So, we know the ECS plays a role in gut health and inflammation, which implicates it in gastritis. But what effect, if any, do cannabinoids have on the ECS in regard to this condition?

  • The Relationship Between Cannabinoids and Gastritis

As mentioned above, no trials have yet pitched individual cannabinoids or mixed formulations against gastritis in humans. However, plenty of studies are testing these chemicals in models of the symptoms of gastritis, including pain, inflammation, and nausea. Let’s take a look at what the research says about THC and CBD, the two most prominent cannabinoids in modern cultivars.

THC

Can smoking THC-rich joints or eating edibles impact the symptoms of gastritis? There’s no answer to this question yet. But researchers know that the endocannabinoid system holds sway over pain signalling in the body. Ongoing studies are looking to discover if THC has any meaningful effect on the ECS when it comes to pain transmission.

Some patients that experience gastritis also develop nausea. Trials are testing THC[5], alongside CBD, to determine its impact on chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in human subjects.

CBD

Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t bind to CB1 receptors of the ECS. Put simply, this means it doesn’t produce the same euphoric high. In fact, CBD has a low affinity for the major receptors that make up the ECS. Instead, it manages to inhibit enzymes that break down anandamide, one of the main endocannabinoids in the body.

Interestingly, researchers are testing the ability of ECS enzyme inhibitors[6] in models of gastrointestinal damage and inflammation caused by anti-inflammatory drugs. Furthermore, many ongoing studies are researching CBD in models of inflammation, including inflammatory bowel disease[7].

How Are Cannabis Compounds Consumed?

Regardless of the exact relationship between cannabis and gastritis, it’s helpful to know the different intake methods for THC and CBD so you can make an informed purchase decision, should you choose to use them. Here are the most relevant methods for our purposes:

  • Inhalation: Both smoking and vaping rapidly introduce cannabinoids into the bloodstream, but they also come with obvious cardiorespiratory dangers.
  • Oral: Cannabis-infused foods and beverages are a tasty way to consume marijuana and CBD, but they take a while to set in and have poor bioavailability. That said, they travel through the digestive system and liver before reaching systemic circulation, which some users may find advantageous.
  • Sublingual: This route involves placing cannabinoid oils and extracts under the tongue. Here, they diffuse directly into the bloodstream to produce a rapid onset of effects.

Does Cannabis Cause Gastritis?

Cannabinoids are able to interface with ECS receptors in the digestive system. But this raises the possibility that too much cannabis taken too frequently could upset the delicate balance of this network. No compelling evidence exists that shows cannabis to trigger gastritis. However, cannabis can cause cannabis hyperemesis syndrome in chronic users, a condition characterised by abdominal pain and continuous vomiting, but the causes of these conditions are unrelated.

Legality of Cannabis and CBD

The legal status of cannabis and CBD varies wildly from country to country, and even within a single country. Although federally illegal in the United States, citizens of select states can legally purchase recreational cannabis from dispensaries in accordance with state law. Most countries in Europe have outlawed high-THC cannabis, but many of them allow the sale of CBD products such as oils and low-THC hemp flowers.

Cannabis and Gastritis: More Evidence Is Needed

The current body of research on the effects of cannabis on models of inflammation and pain offers some insights, but well-designed human trials are vital to determine if cannabis offers anything valuable. While no such research exists, the trend of cannabis legalization throughout the world will help to prompt more comprehensive studies in the near future.

External Resources:
  1. Autoimmune gastritis - PMC https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  2. Aspirin-induced gastritis and gastrointestinal bleeding - PubMed https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  3. Endocannabinoids in the Gut - PMC https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  4. Role of Cannabinoids in Gastrointestinal Mucosal Defense and Inflammation - PMC https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  5. Oral cannabinoid-rich THC/CBD cannabis extract for secondary prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting: a study protocol for a pilot and definitive randomised double-blind placebo-controlled trial (CannabisCINV) | BMJ Open https://bmjopen.bmj.com
  6. Role of Cannabinoids in Gastrointestinal Mucosal Defense and Inflammation - PMC https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  7. Cannabidiol in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: A Brief Overview https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com
Disclaimer:
This content is for educational purposes only. The information provided is derived from research gathered from external sources.

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Privacy Policy - Royal Queen Seeds

To ensure a safe online environment and guarantee adequate data protection, we strictly comply with all legal requirements. In this privacy statement, we provide information about how and for what purpose data is collected, safety measures, storage periods and contact details.


COMPANY NAME: SNORKEL SPAIN, SL (hereinafter ROYAL QUEEN SEEDS)

C/ Vilar d'Abdelà, 5 (nave 1) CP: 08170 de Montornès del Vallès

+34 937 379 846

support@royalqueenseeds.com


The present Privacy Policy sets out the terms on which we will treat personal data at ROYAL QUEEN SEEDS; this includes any personal data collected through our website https://www.royalqueenseeds.com/ as well as any other data we process in the course of our business activities.

ROYAL QUEEN SEEDS collects the following personal data for the purposes listed below:

SECTION 1 – PERSONAL INFORMATION WE COLLECT

1.1 Account purchases

Account purchases can only be made if you are in possession of a personal account. When you create an account or purchase something from our shop, as part of the buying and selling process we collect the following personal information that you provide to us:

This information is required for delivery. In addition, when you browse our shop, we automatically receive the Internet Protocol (IP) address of your computer. Based on this information, we can optimise your online experience and at the same time protect our online environment.

Purpose of data collection

We collect and store account-related data for the following purposes:

(a) to carry out obligations arising from any contracts between you and us, and to provide you with information, products and services that you may request from us;

(b) to set up, manage and communicate with you about your account and your orders;

(c) to conduct market research and analysis;

(d) to confirm your age and identity, and to detect and prevent fraud.

1.2 Newsletters

With your explicit permission, we may send you newsletters about our shop, new products and other updates. We send newsletters based on your explicit consent. In the event that you purchase a product, and in accordance with current regulations, we may send you commercial communications in accordance with the legitimate interest of our company, always about products or services similar to those you have purchased or contracted. In any case, you may exercise your right of opposition through the channels announced in this Privacy Policy. The following information is collected in relation to the newsletter:

We do not need to know the sex of the person in order to send the newsletter (data minimisation: by law we must ask for data that is strictly necessary to provide the service, and in this case knowing the sex is not necessary to send the newsletter).

Purpose of data collection

The data collected is used to:

(a) personalise our emails, including your name and gender;

(b) provide gender-specific content.

You can withdraw your consent at any time by using the link provided in the newsletter or the contact information provided in section 2.

1.3 Customer service and contact form

In order to provide appropriate support, our customer service employees have access to information related to the account. Consequently, their support will be highly effective and friendly. The data provided in our contact form is used by our CRM provider, SuperOffice. We will only use your details to respond to your message.

SECTION 2 – LEGITIMATE INTEREST

If you have purchased any of our products, please note that we may process your personal data for promotional purposes, based on Royal Queen Seeds' legitimate interest only to offer you products or services from our company and about products or services similar to those you have purchased. You may exercise your right to opt out of future messages by the means set out in this Privacy Policy or through any notification you receive.

2.1 How do you withdraw consent?

If you change your mind, you can withdraw your consent for us to contact you for the purpose of collecting, using, or disclosing your data at any time by reaching out to us at: support@royalqueenseeds.com.

SECTION 3 – DISCLOSURE

We may disclose your personal information if we are required to do so by law or if you breach our Terms of Service.

SECTION 4 – HOW LONG DO WE KEEP YOUR DATA?

At Royal Queen Seeds, we will not retain your data for longer than is necessary for the purposes described in this Policy. Different retention periods apply for different types of data; however, the longest period we will normally hold any personal data is 10 years.

4.1 Account information

Data relating to the account remains relevant for as long as the consumer is in possession of an account. Therefore, the data remains documented for as long as the account exists. When our customers delete an account, the associated data will be deleted within a reasonable period of time. Requests regarding the inspection or correction of stored personal data or the deletion of an account can be sent to support@royalqueenseeds.com.

4.2 Newsletters

In the event that you give us your consent to inform you about our products or services, we will keep your data until you express your wish not to receive any further communications from us. However, we regularly (every month) carry out a relevance check. Registered customers (and their personal information) will be deleted whenever customers do not reply to our request. In addition, our newsletter mailing has an opt-out feature. Consumers can withdraw their consent by using this opt-out feature.

SECTION 5 – COOKIES

Cookies are small information files that notify your computer of previous interactions with our website. These cookies are stored on your hard drive, not on our website. Essentially, when you use our website, your computer displays its cookies to us, informing our site that you have visited before. This allows our website to function more quickly and remember aspects related to your previous visits (such as your username), making your experience more convenient. At Royal Queen Seeds, we use two types of cookies: functional and analytical.

5.1 Functional Cookies

Functional cookies are used to enhance your online experience. Among other things, these cookies track what is added to your shopping cart. The use of these cookies does not require prior authorization.

5.2 Analytical Cookies

Analytical cookies are used for research and market analysis. The data collected with these analytical cookies is anonymous, making it unusable for third parties. The use of these cookies does not require prior authorization.

SECTION 5 – THIRD-PARTY SERVICES

Third-party services are required to conduct transactions and provide our services. In general, the third-party providers we use will only collect, use and disclose your information to the extent necessary to enable them to perform the services they provide to us.

However, certain third-party service providers, such as payment gateways and other payment transaction processors, have their own privacy policies regarding the information we must provide to them for your transactions.

We encourage you to read the privacy policies of these providers so that you can understand how these providers will handle your personal information.

In particular, certain suppliers may be located or have facilities located in a different jurisdiction than yours or ours. Therefore, if you choose to proceed with a transaction involving the services of a third party, your information may be subject to the laws of the jurisdiction in which that service provider or its facilities are located.

Once you leave our website or are redirected to a third-party website or application, you are no longer governed by this Privacy Policy or the Terms of Service of our website.

Web analytics service (anonymous data)

On this website we have integrated an element of a web analytics service (with anonymisation functionality). Web analytics can be defined as the gathering, processing and analysis of data about the behaviour of visitors to websites. An analytics service collects, among other things, data about which website a person came from (the so-called referrer), which sub-pages they visited or how often and for how long they visited a sub-page. Web analytics is mainly used for website optimisation and for a cost–benefit analysis of internet advertising.

Courier service

To complete deliveries we use a courier service. This courier service carries out the delivery between our company and the consumer's home. To complete these logistics, the company requires access to the consumer's name and address information.

Mailing service

Royal Queen Seeds uses a third-party mail service provider to send its newsletter. This provider has access to limited account information related to opt-in consent (e.g. email address).

Marketing services

Royal Queen Seeds has the support of a company that specialises in marketing and communication activities. Their access to personal information is very limited and mostly anonymous.

Payment services

At Royal Queen Seeds we use external payment services to handle our transactions (e.g. credit card payments).

SECTION 6 – SECURITY

To protect your personal information, we take reasonable precautions and follow industry standard best practices to ensure that it is not inappropriately lost, misused, accessed, disclosed, altered or destroyed.

If you provide us with your credit card information, the information is encrypted using secure socket layer technology (SSL) and stored using AES-256 encryption. Although no method of transmission over the internet or electronic storage is 100% secure, we follow all PCI-DSS requirements and implement additional industry standards that are commonly accepted. Information related to the account is protected with a hashing method. This method transforms the information into a generated hash. As a result, confidential information is protected and invisible, even to us. In addition, our databases are exceptionally protected against unauthorised access. For example, access to the database is only possible and permitted via approved IP addresses (e.g. from Royal Queen Seeds headquarters). Other attempts and addresses are rejected at all times.

Furthermore, data is anonymised as much as possible, so it cannot be directly linked to a specific consumer. With this data, however, we may be able to carry out market research and analysis. In addition, the third parties concerned (e.g. mailing service) are examined prior to our collaboration, comply with the GDPR from the EU and receive a processing agreement. Within Royal Queen Seeds, employees are assigned different access permissions. Specific permission provides access only to information that is strictly required to perform a task. Digital security measures are subject to change and must meet high requirements to ensure the safety of online customers. That is why, at Royal Queen Seeds, we appoint a security officer. Regular verification and improvement of security measures (where necessary) are part of the role.

SECTION 7 – CHANGES TO THIS PRIVACY POLICY

We reserve the right to modify this Privacy Policy at any time, so please check back regularly. Changes and clarifications will be effective immediately upon being published on the Website. If we make substantial changes to this policy, we will notify you here that it has been updated so you will know what information we collect, how we use it and under what circumstances, if any, we use and/or disclose it.

SECTION 8 – YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO: