- GERD is a persistent acid reflux disorder that may cause chest pains and inflammation of the esophagus(1).
- Cannabidiol or CBD interacts with the body’s cannabinoid receptors to produce pain-relieving (analgesic) and anti-inflammatory effects that may help manage pain and inflammation(2).
- Individuals considering using CBD for GERD or acid reflux must first talk to a medical professional for advice.
Can CBD Oil Help With GERD?
Recurring acid reflux may lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The disorder is caused by stomach contents flowing back into the mouth and esophagus(3).
This gastrointestinal issue may cause chest pains and inflammation of the esophagus(4).
Meanwhile, cannabidiol, commonly referred to as CBD, may possess potential analgesic or pain-relieving effects and anti-inflammatory properties(5).
These benefits may help relieve symptoms of some medical conditions like gastrointestinal problems.
In addition, research has shown that CBD activity in the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and cannabinoid receptors may regulate inflammation, gastric acid production, and esophageal function(6).
The ECS is a system that maintains balance by regulating various bodily functions(7).
Research published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Medicine indicated that cannabinoid receptor activities caused by CBD and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) may inhibit gastric acid secretions(8).
THC or tetrahydrocannabinol is a psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis plants. This compound causes a euphoric high(9).
Additionally, according to the study, certain cannabinoid receptors may be involved in regulating gastrointestinal functions such as gastrointestinal motility and relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)(10).
The same study stated that cannabinoids may contain anti-inflammatory and gastric protective properties that may be beneficial for gastrointestinal disorders like peptic ulcer disease(11).
Studies have hypothesized that abnormalities in gastric motility may be associated with the onset of gastroesophageal reflux disease(12).
According to a published study in the British Journal of Pharmacology, cannabinoid receptor activities may regulate upper and lower gastrointestinal motility(13).
Lastly, a clinical study discussed that individuals with GERD may develop anxiety and depression. The study noted that 41.4% of GERD patients suffered from depression, 34.4% suffered from anxiety, and 27.13% experienced both mental disorders(14).
Meanwhile, a 2018 study showed that CBD may contain anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) and antidepressant properties that may be beneficial in dealing with mental health issues(15).
While these studies may be promising, studies on CBD and gastroesophageal reflux disease are still lacking. Further research that examines the benefits of CBD in treating GERD is needed.
How Does CBD Work for GERD?
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a system that plays a role in maintaining homeostasis in the human body.
The ECS is comprised of cannabinoid receptors located across the body. These receptors include CB1 receptors and CB2 receptors(16), found in the immune system, central nervous system, and gastrointestinal system(17).
CBD interacts with the ECS(18), as well as the cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2)(19).
Research has hypothesized that the activation of CB1 and CB2 receptors in the ECS may influence bodily functions and cause potential therapeutic advantages(20).
CB1 receptors may have a role in intestinal motility modulation by decreasing LES relaxation and stimulating esophageal peristalsis(21).
Esophageal peristalsis is the contraction of the muscles in the esophagus.
Additionally, the activation of CB1 receptors may reduce the secretion of acid and intestinal fluids(22).
Meanwhile, CB2 activation may regulate gastrointestinal tract motility and reduce intestinal inflammation(23).
Despite CBD’s purported benefits and influence on cannabinoid receptor activities, further studies on CBD’s efficacy on medical issues like GERD are required.
Using CBD Oil for GERD: The Pros and Cons
Pros
- CBD may activate cannabinoid receptor activities in the ECS, delivering modulatory effects on the upper and lower gastrointestinal system(24).
- CBD and THC may contain therapeutic properties for pain and inflammation caused by gastrointestinal disorders(25).
- CBD may help reduce anxiety and depression in individuals suffering from GERD(26).
- CBD has been reviewed to have a good safety profile for human consumption(27).
Cons
- There is no direct research on the efficacy of CBD with GERD. Most research only discusses CBD’s potential activities on cannabinoid receptors that may help modulate symptoms of GERD.
- When taken in high doses, CBD may cause side effects, such as drowsiness, loss of appetite, and dry mouth(28).
How to Take CBD Oil for GERD
The various administration routes individuals can try to take CBD oil for GERD include:
- Ingestion
- Sublingual (under the tongue) absorption
- Topical absorption
Some CBD products are available in gummies, tinctures, topicals, and vapes.
Ingesting CBD oil is a good choice for people suffering from gastrointestinal issues, such as GERD or acid reflux, since the compound will be delivered to the area it is needed most(29).
Upon ingesting CBD oil products, the compound will pass through the gastrointestinal tract and be processed and absorbed by the liver(30). This process is called first-pass metabolism.
First-pass metabolism is defined as the metabolic process where active compounds pass through the digestive system and are then metabolized by the liver before they are carried into the bloodstream(31).
The onset time of orally administered CBD is around 30 to 90 minutes(32).
A recent survey study from the Journal of Cannabis Research discussed that CBD users who experience self-perceived stress, sleep problems, and anxiety use approximately 50mg of CBD daily(33). About 72.6% of participants stated that they take CBD sublingually.
Research on GERD patients showed that these individuals may have a higher risk of developing mental health issues like anxiety and depression, particularly those who encounter chest pains(34).
Thus, CBD oil taken sublingually may be helpful for individuals with GERD.
In this method, CBD oil is put directly under the tongue, where mucous membranes are located and absorbed into the bloodstream(35).
The sublingual route also offers a faster onset time of 15 to 30 minutes, and individuals may feel the benefits of CBD for 4 to 6 hours(36).
CBD Dosage for GERD
The FDA or Food and Drug Administration does not authorize the use of CBD as a treatment option for any medical condition, like GERD.
Therefore, there is no standard CBD dosage for the condition.
However, it has been hypothesized that CBD doses of around 10mg to 100mg per day may be effective for medical issues like inflammation, pain, anxiety, and depression(37).
Nevertheless, it is best to talk with a medical health professional experienced in cannabis use before taking CBD oil for health conditions like GERD or acid reflux.
These experts may provide advice on possible CBD side effects and proper dosing.
Full Spectrum CBD Oil or Isolate: Which Is Better for GERD?
When choosing the best CBD oil product for GERD, there are various factors that one should consider, such as the severity of the health condition and personal preferences.
Individuals may choose between full-spectrum CBD oil or CBD isolates(38).
Full-spectrum CBD products have all the compounds and cannabinoids of the cannabis plant, such as CBD, flavonoids, and terpenes.
Full-spectrum CBD products also have less than 0.3% THC concentration.
Flavonoids are plant compounds that may deliver anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antioxidant properties(39). Meanwhile, terpenes are responsible for cannabis’ unique scent and flavor(40).
Furthermore, due to all the cannabis compounds present in full-spectrum CBD oil, this product may help provide the entourage effect.
The entourage effect is the phenomenon where the cannabis plant’s active components work better if administered simultaneously(41).
On the other hand, CBD isolates are made of pure cannabidiol.
Individuals who are not able to tolerate other cannabinoids may choose CBD isolates as it usually contains 99% pure CBD.
Tips in Using CBD for GERD
-
Speak With a Doctor
Despite the purported therapeutic effects of CBD oil, there is still a lack of evidence that supports the compound’s safety and efficacy, especially when used for GERD.
Therefore it is vital to talk to an experienced medical professional before using CBD oil for acid reflux.
These healthcare professionals can provide advice and guidance on the risks, side effects, and drug interactions CBD may induce.
-
Choose an Oral Delivery Method
Individuals suffering from gastrointestinal problems like GERD or acid reflux may opt for oral CBD products since ingestion allows the compound to be directly delivered to where it is needed most(42).
Once ingested, the compound passes through the digestive tract and is processed by the liver and absorbed into the body(43), also called first-pass metabolism.
First-pass metabolism is defined as the process in which a drug gets metabolized at a specific location in the body, such as the gastrointestinal system, before being circulated into the bloodstream(44).
-
Consider That Results May Vary
People may have varied reactions to CBD. The effects of the compound may change depending on the dosage, potency, delivery method, the condition being treated, and the individual’s desired effect(45).
How CBD Oil Compares to Alternative Treatments for GERD
Drugs that may treat GERD include over-the-counter medications such as antacids, which neutralize stomach acids, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which reduce stomach acids(46).
However, these drugs may induce adverse reactions, such as vomiting, nausea, stomach pain, and constipation. These side effects are usually observed among children and the elderly(47).
Meanwhile, a clinical study on CBD suggests that the compound has a favorable safety profile(48).
Safety of CBD
Generally, CBD is well tolerated in humans and animals. It is also safe and non-addictive, according to the World Health Organization (WHO)(49).
However, taking CBD may produce minor side effects, including(50):
- Fatigue
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Diarrhea
- Reduced appetite
Individuals with GERD or acid reflux may take proton pump inhibitors to heal the esophagus lining and block stomach acid production(51).
Proton pump inhibitors are medications that use the cytochrome P450(52), which is a family of liver enzymes that metabolize approximately 60% of the drugs people take.
High doses of CBD may inhibit the activity of these enzymes and increase the duration of the effect of prescription drugs(53).
Individuals should ask for the advice of a healthcare professional before taking CBD oil or other CBD products alongside medications for GERD.
What Is GERD?
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or chronic acid reflux occurs when stomach acids or gastric acids persistently leak back up into the esophagus or the tube that connects the stomach to the throat(54).
Individuals may occasionally experience acid reflux and heartburn (burning pain in the chest). However, experiencing these issues consistently may indicate GERD development(55).
GERD is a common disorder. According to the American Gastroenterological Association, one-third of the U.S population has experienced the condition(56).
However, if left untreated, GERD may lead to more severe health issues(57).
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of GERD are(58):
- Heartburn (burning sensation in the chest area)
- Regurgitation (food flowing back into the mouth from the esophagus)
- The sensation of food caught in the throat
- Chest pain
- Coughing
- Sore throat
- Vomiting
What Is the Difference Between Acid Reflux and GERD?
When the lower esophageal sphincter or LES muscle allows stomach acid flow back into the esophagus, this occurrence causes acid reflux(59). Meanwhile, GERD is a severe form of acid reflux disorder.
GERD and acid reflux symptoms include heartburn, chest pains, and coughing.
Risk Factors and Other Causes of GERD
Certain conditions may increase the risk of developing GERD, like(60):
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Connective tissue disorders, like scleroderma
- High blood pressure
- Eating large meals before bed
Avoiding these risk factors may calm symptoms of GERD or prevent the disorder from flaring up.
Meanwhile, acid reflux can be aggravated by(61):
- Smoking
- Eating fatty or spicy foods
- Drinking coffee or alcohol
- Taking certain drugs, like aspirin
If left untreated, GERD may cause injury to the esophagus tissue (esophageal mucosal damage)(62) or bulging of the upper stomach through the diaphragm and chest cavity (hiatal hernia)(63).
These complications can be caused by prolonged gastric acid exposure to the lining of the esophagus(64).
Moreover, individuals with GERD have a higher risk of esophageal cancer(65).
Diagnosis and Treatment
Proper diet and lifestyle changes, such as avoiding spicy foods and smoking, may naturally heal or relieve acid reflux or GERD symptoms.
Doctors may also recommend over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications(66).
Depending on the individual’s symptoms, doctors can prescribe different drugs that will best treat GERD.
The different medicines used for GERD are(67):
- Antacids that give fast relief by counteracting stomach acids
- H-2 receptor blockers that reduce acid production
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), more potent acid blockers, that may also heal damaged esophagus tissue
- Baclofen, a prescription medicine that is used to decrease the relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter, which allows acid backwash
If OTC medication does not reduce symptoms of the condition, certain surgical procedures are also an option to treat GERD, like(68):
- Laparoscopic antireflux surgery is a minimally invasive operation that fixes acid reflux by creating a new instrument at the bottom part of the esophagus to reinforce the LES, preventing food from refluxing back into the esophagus.
- LINX device implantation is a procedure that involves inserting a ring of tiny magnets into the body. This device is powerful enough to keep the connection between the esophagus and stomach closed to prevent acid reflux. However, it also allows food to pass through.
FAQs
- What medication works best for GERD?
OTC and prescription medications, such as antacids, proton pump inhibitors, and H-2 receptor blockers, may quickly relieve acid reflux or GERD symptoms(69). - What gets rid of GERD fast?Taking antacids, such as Tums, Rolaids, and Mylanta, that neutralize stomach acids may offer the quickest relief from symptoms of GERD(70).
-
What CBD oil is best for GERD?
There are no specific studies on which CBD oil is best for GERD.
The effects of CBD may depend on several factors, such as the individual’s weight, CBD administration method, and CBD potency.
For more information on cannabidiol, individuals may research CBD through ebooks identified by their DOI (digital object identifier) number.
- GERD (Chronic Acid Reflux)
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17019-gerd-or-acid-reflux-or-heartburn-overview#management-and-treatment - CBD oil: What is it and how does it work?
https://www.eehealth.org/blog/2019/09/cbd-oil/ - GERD (Chronic Acid Reflux)
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17019-gerd-or-acid-reflux-or-heartburn-overview#symptoms-and-causes - ibid.
- Cannabidiol and Other Non-Psychoactive Cannabinoids for Prevention and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Disorders: Useful Nutraceuticals?
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7246936/ - The Endocannabinoid System as an Emerging Target of Pharmacotherapy
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2241751/ - The Endocannabinoid System, Our Universal Regulator
https://www.jyi.org/2018-june/2018/6/1/the-endocannabinoid-system-our-universal-regulator - Gastric acid inhibitory and gastric protective effects of Cannabis and cannabinoids
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1995764516300712 - Tetrahydrocannabinol
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/tetrahydrocannabinol - Gastric acid inhibitory and gastric protective effects of Cannabis and cannabinoids
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1995764516300712 - ibid.
- Esophageal motility abnormalities in gastroesophageal reflux disease
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4023328/ - Involvement of cannabinoid receptors in gut motility and visceral perception
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15100166/ - Depression and Anxiety in Patients with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disorder With and Without Chest Pain
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6858267/ - Translational Investigation of the Therapeutic Potential of Cannabidiol (CBD): Toward a New Age
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2018.02009/full - Cannabinoid Receptors and the Endocannabinoid System: Signaling and Function in the Central Nervous System
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29533978/ - GPR55 – a putative “type 3” cannabinoid receptor in inflammation
https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/jbcpp-2015-0080/html - The Endocannabinoid System, Our Universal Regulator
https://www.jyi.org/2018-june/2018/6/1/the-endocannabinoid-system-our-universal-regulator - The diverse CB1 and CB2 receptor pharmacology of three plant cannabinoids: Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabivarin
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2219532/ - An introduction to the endogenous cannabinoid system
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4789136/ - Cannabinoid receptor agonism inhibits transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations and reflux in dogs
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12360475/ - Cannabinoid receptor agonism inhibits transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations and reflux in dogs
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12360475/ - Role of Cannabinoids in Gastrointestinal Mucosal Defense and Inflammation
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5333598/ - Inhibitory effect of cannabichromene, a major non-psychotropic cannabinoid extracted from Cannabis sativa, on inflammation-induced hypermotility in mice
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3417459/ - Cannabidiol and Other Non-Psychoactive Cannabinoids for Prevention and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Disorders: Useful Nutraceuticals?
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7246936/ - Translational Investigation of the Therapeutic Potential of Cannabidiol (CBD): Toward a New Age
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2018.02009/full - An Update on Safety and Side Effects of Cannabidiol: A Review of Clinical Data and Relevant Animal Studies
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5569602/ - Cannabidiol Adverse Effects and Toxicity
http://www.eurekaselect.com/article/98720 - Healing With CBD, pages 202-203.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AGlxnhS2SoFeOXEuysv75bd_C9pEnwsU/view - Healing With CBD, page 202.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AGlxnhS2SoFeOXEuysv75bd_C9pEnwsU/view - Healing With CBD, page 282.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AGlxnhS2SoFeOXEuysv75bd_C9pEnwsU/view - Healing With CBD, page 191.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AGlxnhS2SoFeOXEuysv75bd_C9pEnwsU/view - Reasons for cannabidiol use: a cross-sectional study of CBD users, focusing on self-perceived stress, anxiety, and sleep problems
https://jcannabisresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42238-021-00061-5 - Depression and Anxiety in Patients with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disorder With and Without Chest Pain
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6858267/ - Healing With CBD, page 207.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AGlxnhS2SoFeOXEuysv75bd_C9pEnwsU/view - ibid.
- CBD: A Patient’s Guide to Medicinal Cannabis, page 129.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MILU_6ZjYkII-XMUPHLFPiPQbrz__5Sh/view - Cannabidiol primer for healthcare professionals
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7340472/ - Flavonoids as antioxidants
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10924197/ - The Cannabis Terpenes
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7763918/ - The “Entourage Effect”: Terpenes Coupled with Cannabinoids for the Treatment of Mood Disorders and Anxiety Disorders
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7324885/ - Healing With CBD, pages 202-203.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AGlxnhS2SoFeOXEuysv75bd_C9pEnwsU/view - Healing With CBD, page 202.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AGlxnhS2SoFeOXEuysv75bd_C9pEnwsU/view - First Pass Effect
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/pharmacology-toxicology-and-pharmaceutical-science/first-pass-effect - CBD: A Patient’s Guide to Medicinal Cannabis, page 97.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MILU_6ZjYkII-XMUPHLFPiPQbrz__5Sh/view - Treatment for GER & GERD
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/acid-reflux-ger-gerd-adults/treatment - Antacids
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526049/ - An Update on Safety and Side Effects of Cannabidiol: A Review of Clinical Data and Relevant Animal Studies
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5569602/ - CANNABIDIOL (CBD)
https://www.who.int/medicines/access/controlled-substances/CannabidiolCriticalReview.pdf - What are the benefits of CBD — and is it safe to use?
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/expert-answers/is-cbd-safe-and-effective/faq-20446700 - Treatment for GER & GERD
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/acid-reflux-ger-gerd-adults/treatment - Metabolic interactions of the proton-pump inhibitors lansoprazole, omeprazole and pantoprazole with other drugs
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8930576/ - Healing With CBD, page 114.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AGlxnhS2SoFeOXEuysv75bd_C9pEnwsU/view - Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gerd/symptoms-causes/syc-20361940 - GERD (Chronic Acid Reflux)
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17019-gerd-or-acid-reflux-or-heartburn-overview - The Prevalence and Impact of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
https://aboutgerd.org/what-is/prevalence/ - GERD (Chronic Acid Reflux)
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17019-gerd-or-acid-reflux-or-heartburn-overview - ibid
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gerd/symptoms-causes/syc-20361940 - ibid.
- ibid.
- Esophageal mucosal damage may promote dysmotility and worsen esophageal acid exposure
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16332488/ - Heartburn and hiatal hernia
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heartburn/multimedia/heartburn-gerd/vid-20084644 - Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gerd/symptoms-causes/syc-20361940 - Esophageal Cancer Risk Factors
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/esophagus-cancer/causes-risks-prevention/risk-factors.html - GERD (Chronic Acid Reflux)
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17019-gerd-or-acid-reflux-or-heartburn-overview#symptoms-and-causes - ibid.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Treatment
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/gastroesophageal-reflux-disease-gerd-treatment - GERD (Chronic Acid Reflux)
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17019-gerd-or-acid-reflux-or-heartburn-overview#symptoms-and-causes - Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gerd/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20361959