Irritable bowel syndrome: Marijuana chewing gum can cure IBS

New Delhi: Scientists claim that cannabis-laced chewing gum could cure irritable bowel syndrome, reducing painful stomach cramps, control bloating and normalise stool.

According to researchers from Wageningen University in the Netherlands, CBD - a key property in marijuana- could ease the colon spasms that seem to be the root cause of symptoms, reports Dailymail.

"We are excited to see that Axim Biotechnologies Inc (AXIM) has reached another milestone in its clinical development program," said Dr Stuart Titus, CEO of Medical Marijuana, Inc.

"This is the first advancement in cannabinoid research for treatment of IBS in medical history and gives a clear example of how far ahead AXIM is in its clinical development programs," Titus added.

The study claims itself to be first of its kind to test a relationship between CBD and IBS.

The trial will begin next month, testing a cannabis-infused chewing gum made by US firm Medical Marijuana Inc.

Researchers will give trial to 40 participants, aged between 18 and 65, alongside matching placebo gums.

The gum will contain 50mg of CBD per serving and the participants will be allowed up to six chewing gums a day to control their stomach cramps, bloating, pain and other symptoms.

Preliminary research suggests the product could reduce painful stomach cramps, control bloating, and normalize stool.

"The cost to society in terms of direct medical expenses and indirect costs associated with loss of productivity and work absenteeism tied to IBS is considerable," Dr Titus stated.

The study reveals that the drug would interact with the endogenous cannabinoid receptors in sufferers' digestive tract, loosening tension.

Specifically, it will test a new product called CanChew, developed my AXIM Biotechnologies, Medical Marijuana Inc's major investment company.

Till date, doctors have struggled to find an effective treatment for IBS, which affects around 3.5 million Americans a year.

(With ANI inputs)