Cannabidiol May Help Control Intestinal Spasms and Diarrhea

Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound of Cannabis sativa, may act in reducing intestinal spasms and controlling diarrhea, according to a new preclinical study released by Argentine researchers. The research reinforces scientific interest in the potential of CBD to modulate intestinal motility, especially in functional and inflammatory gastrointestinal disorders.

Published in the Phytomedicine Plus journal, the study evaluated the effects of CBD on isolated intestinal tissues and animal models, demonstrating a significant reduction in intestinal contractions and episodes of diarrhea, without causing constipation.

Antispasmodic Action and Potential Clinical Applications

According to Dr. Tiago Campanholi, a specialist in Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, medical cannabis, especially formulations combining CBD and THC, presents potential as an adjuvant therapeutic alternative for patients with gastrointestinal diseases.

“Medical cannabis presents potential as a safe and effective alternative for relieving intestinal spasms, abdominal pain, and diarrhea in patients with irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and other inflammatory or functional diseases,” he says.

He highlights that among the main observed benefits are the improvement of symptoms, quality of life, appetite, and sleep. Dr. Campanholi also points out that CBD has a favorable safety profile, while the use of THC requires greater caution and clinical monitoring.

Despite the promising results, the specialist emphasizes that the use of medical cannabis does not replace conventional treatments. “Current evidence indicates that cannabis should be considered as an adjuvant therapy, not replacing medications such as aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, or immunobiologics. Treatment should always be individualized and monitored,” he states.

Mechanism of Action and Current Limits

The study indicates that the antispasmodic effect of CBD is related to the activation of potassium channels, responsible for regulating intestinal muscle tone. This mechanism was also highlighted by the interviewed physician.

“Experimental and clinical studies show that the activation of CB1 receptors of the Endocannabinoid System reduces intestinal motility, being useful in controlling diarrhea and spasms. CBD, in particular, acts on KATP potassium channels, restoring the rhythm of muscle contractions without causing constipation,” explains the physician.

According to the specialist, this type of action can be especially useful in cases of hypermotility associated with inflammation or stress, common in functional gastrointestinal disorders.