Parkinson's disease usually affects people over the age of 50. Although the cause is unclear, it’s a condition in which parts of the brain become progressively damaged.
Most experts think it may be mostly down to environmental factors and genetics that cause loss of brain cells in part of the brain. And this leads to common symptoms that include:
- Involuntary shaking body (tremor)
- Slow movement
- Stiff muscles
Other symptoms can include:
- Depression and anxiety
- Balance problems
- Loss of sense of smell
- Insomnia
- Memory problems
The condition gets progressively worse, making every day tasks harder and harder. And, as you can imagine, this can have a huge impact on day-to-day life.
Unfortunately there’s no cure for Parkinson’s. But symptoms can be relieved with a variety of treatments, including physiotherapy, brain surgery and medication, to ease the strain on quality of life.
Medical cannabis is one alternative option that can be prescribed for Parkinson’s as well as 50+ other conditions. More and more research is being done around this as an alternative treatment option, however, we’re far from done. Lots more research is needed. Find out if you’re eligible by heading to the Alternaleaf website and filling out our 30-second questionnaire.
Below we’ll be exploring the question: Can CBD help with Parkinson’s and can THC help with Parkinson’s?
How CBD and THC May Help with Parkinson’s Symptoms
The cannabis plant produces over 100 cannabinoids, or compounds. Tetrahydrocannabinolis (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are two of these natural compounds, and they’re what you’ll see most often when researching medical cannabis. The main difference is that THC can produce a ‘high’, while CBD doesn’t. And remember, whilst there is evidence to give a general idea of how both THC and CBD may react with the body, they can affect every individual differently.
A number of studies have shown there may be some potential CBD oil benefits for Parkinson’s disease. However, a lot more research is needed, particularly bigger studies of a higher quality.
This 2019 paper proposes CBD oil may help reduce neurological inflammation. A promising result, right? However, it was tested on a small group and therefore was a small study.
Another thing to keep in mind is that CBD oil purchased over the counter isn’t strictly monitored. That’s why it may be better to seek the help of a licensed clinic like Alternaleaf, where you can find medication that contains both CBD and THC. It’s monitored, trusted and personalised to you and your symptoms.
You can also purchase CBD products from Alternaleaf’s Pharmacy, Montu Pharmacy. And because they’re non-prescription products, you can order them without a prescription, but still trust the source you’re purchasing from.
The potential benefits could include reducing tremors, anxiety, and sleep disorders - we explore this more later on.
How to Use CBD and THC for Parkinson’s
When it comes to medical cannabis, the way you consume is down to personal preference and your clinicians recommendation. They’ll advise you on how to take CBD for Parkinson’s and how to take THC for Parkinson’s based on your symptoms and condition, but they’ll also work with you to find what you’re comfortable with. Remember, you may not choose the right form at first, so speak to your clinician if you have any questions or preferences. Below we’ve got a brief explanation of different ways to use CBD oil and THC oil for Parkinson’s:
- Inhaling: This method of consumption provides rapid onset of effects, typically within minutes, making it suitable for immediate relief of symptoms such as pain. However, remember that smoking your prescription is illegal in the UK and could lead to lung damage. So, if your preferred method is inhalation, purchasing a dry herb vaporiser through a licensed clinic like Alternaleaf is the best solution.
- Cannabis Edibles & Capsules: Consuming cannabis-infused ‘edibles’, like pastilles, or soft gel capsules, results in slower onset of effects, which can take between 1 to 2 hours. This method is ideal for longer-lasting relief.
- CBD & THC Oils/Tinctures: Placing cannabis oil or tincture under the tongue provides a faster onset than edibles, usually within 15 to 30 minutes, and, like edible options, relief tends to last.
- Cannabis Topicals (Creams, Balms, Patches): Applying cannabis-infused products directly to the skin targets localised pain and inflammation. Please note, you should only ever apply a medication topically if it has been advised by your doctor. The majority of medical cannabis products available for prescription are for consumption via inhalation or sublingually only. There are currently no topical products available for prescription at the time of writing this article.
THC vs. CBD for Parkinson’s
The strain being consumed and its THC/CBD content can vary in effects from person to person. From personal factors such as your past use, physiology and health condition, to you as an individual, this really can be completely different for everyone. It’s best to speak to your clinician about strain and dosage. They’ll take all of the above into account, as well as your own preferences and opinion.
And remember you may not get it right the first time. Medical cannabis can affect everyone differently. And just because someone you know has a certain experience, doesn't mean the same will happen to you.
Risks and Side Effects of CBD & THC
Every medication comes with potential risks, and medical cannabis is no different.
Side effects are rare, however, and may vary depending on THC and CBD content, as well as delivery method (e.g. oil, vaporiser, edible). Likewise, personal factors such as your past use, physiology and health condition could also play a role.
CBD Specific Side Effects:
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Changes in appetite
- Changes in weight
THC Specific Side Effects:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Dry Mouth
- Increased Appetite
- Psychoactive Effects. However, the ‘high’ feeling cannabis can be associated with is much more controlled with medical cannabis, as your prescriber will be able to advise on dosage to avoid this while still achieving symptom relief.
In rare cases, you may have difficulty sleeping, feel anxiety and suffer from panic episodes. But don’t worry too much, your doctor will explain all this in detail, ahead of prescribing any medication. And if you are experiencing any side effects, speak to them. It may be a simple case of altering THC or CBD dosage for Parkinson’s symptoms.
Also keep in mind that medical cannabis could potentially interact with other medications. If you are prescribed other medication, for example Parkinson’s disease medication, it’s best to speak to your Doctor or clinician before consuming any medical cannabis.
CBD and THC as a treatment for Parkinson’s
Pain Management
This small study found that using medical cannabis containing both CBD and THC helped reduce pain. This was conducted on 22 people with Parkinson’s. We’ve got lots more information on medical cannabis and pain here.
CBD for Parkinson’s tremors and THC for Parkinson’s tremors
This older, smaller study suggested that CBD may be able to help reduce tremors.
A phenomenon known as the entourage effect could also suggest that both CBD and THC working together could potentially be better. Again, more research is needed.
Improving Sleep Quality
People with Parkinson’s often don’t sleep well - sometimes they don’t sleep, they sometimes have vivid dreams and nightmares, and sometimes even move a lot when they sleep. And restless sleep makes functioning during the day even harder.
Studies have found that medical cannabis containing both THC and CBD, as well as CBD alone could potentially help with sleep.
Quality of life
All of the above potential benefits of medical cannabis combined could help improve the quality of life of someone living with Parkinson’s Disease.
Summary
Medical Cannabis & Parkinson’s: Can It Help?
There is evidence that shows medical cannabis’ potential for easing symptoms of Parkinson’s. However, one thing is clear: more research is needed. The studies that do exist are small. It’s why at Alternaleaf, we’re trying to push medical cannabis into the mainstream, acting as pioneers for our patients. It has the potential to help - so let’s get it there.
If you have any questions, or want to learn more about medical cannabis and the potential benefits, head to the Alternaleaf website. Medical cannabis can be prescribed for 50+ conditions, so it may be worth completing our 30-second eligibility questionnaire.