Cannabis edibles are food products infused with cannabinoids, offering an alternative consumption method to smoking or vaping. Coughing is a natural reflex that clears irritants or mucus from the airways. This article explores how cannabis edibles might interact with the body’s coughing reflex.
Understanding Edibles and Coughing
When consumed, edibles are absorbed through the digestive system and metabolized by the liver. This process delays effects, typically 30 minutes to 2 hours, lasting up to 12 hours or more, unlike inhaled cannabis where effects are felt almost immediately. Since edibles bypass the respiratory system, they do not introduce irritants associated with smoking that can trigger or worsen a cough. Coughing can arise from various causes, including irritants, inflammation, or infections, ranging from viral illnesses to chronic conditions. The primary active compounds, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system.
Cannabis Compounds and Cough Management
Cannabinoids like THC and CBD are recognized for various properties that could, in theory, indirectly influence coughing. For instance, CBD has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines and reducing immune cell migration to inflamed areas. THC also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, potentially by activating specific receptors on immune cells. These anti-inflammatory actions might help alleviate coughs caused by inflammation in the airways.
Both THC and CBD are also known for their pain-relieving and muscle-relaxing properties. Pain modulation could indirectly reduce the discomfort associated with persistent coughing, while muscle relaxation might ease spasmodic coughing.
Despite these theoretical pathways, it is important to understand that there is currently no specific scientific research or clinical trials demonstrating that cannabis edibles effectively treat or alleviate coughing directly. Most existing research on cannabis and respiratory issues pertains to smoking, rather than ingestion.
Considerations and Risks
Using cannabis edibles for cough relief presents several practical considerations and potential risks. The delayed onset of effects, which can be 1 to 3 hours, makes accurate dosing challenging for acute symptoms like a cough. This delay can lead individuals to consume additional amounts, mistakenly believing the initial dose was insufficient, thereby increasing the risk of overconsumption and unwanted effects. Overconsumption can result in heightened psychoactive effects, including anxiety, paranoia, or even hallucinations.
A common side effect of cannabis use is xerostomia, or dry mouth, which can paradoxically worsen throat irritation and exacerbate coughing for some individuals. The psychoactive effects of THC, responsible for the “high,” may also be undesirable or impairing, especially when seeking simple symptom relief. Furthermore, edibles can interact with other medications, making it important to consider potential drug interactions if other prescriptions are being taken. The legal status of cannabis edibles varies significantly by jurisdiction, which is another factor users must consider.
When to Seek Medical Advice and Alternatives
It is important to consult a healthcare professional for persistent, severe, or worsening coughs. Seek medical advice if a cough lasts longer than a few weeks or is accompanied by concerning symptoms such as thick, discolored phlegm, wheezing, fever, shortness of breath, chest pain, or unexplained weight loss. A cough can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition that requires proper diagnosis and treatment.
For common coughs, several conventional and home remedies can provide relief. These include drinking plenty of fluids to thin mucus, using cough drops or hard candies to soothe an irritated throat, and consuming honey, which may help loosen a cough. Using a humidifier or taking a steamy shower can help moisturize the air and ease respiratory discomfort. Avoiding tobacco smoke, a known irritant, is also beneficial.