Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder. Common symptoms of IBS include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea and constipation. Since there is currently no cure for IBS, the focus of treatment is on minimising its impact on the patient’s quality of life.
For many people, IBS isn’t just uncomfortable. It can be unpredictable, isolating and exhausting. The symptoms often vary from one day to the next, and they don’t always show on the outside. This makes it harder to talk about, and even harder to treat with a one-size-fits-all approach.
In recent years, medical cannabis has received increasing attention as a potential treatment for IBS. Cannabis is known for its ability to influence the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). This plays a crucial role in regulating gut function and inflammation. The gut contains a high concentration of endocannabinoid receptors. These help regulate digestive functions like motility, inflammation, and pain signalling. Cannabinoids from medical cannabis can bind to these receptors, potentially easing IBS symptoms by calming overactive gut responses and reducing inflammation.
So..
Is Indica or Sativa better for IBS symptoms?
That really does depend on a bunch of factors, so let’s see what the research says on medical cannabis for IBS.
Key takeaways
- Comprehensive Treatment: Both Indica and Sativa strains offer invaluable benefits for managing the symptoms of IBS. It’s essential to consider a holistic approach that incorporates physical, mental, and emotional health strategies.
- Inflammation Management: Sativa strains are particularly beneficial for reducing inflammation, a critical factor in IBS flare-ups, thereby potentially easing physical symptoms and discomfort.
- Mental and Emotional Support: Cannabis strains can play a pivotal role in boosting mood and energy levels, offering mental and emotional relief which is crucial for IBS sufferers who face daily challenges due to their condition.
- Legal and Safe Use: It is imperative to use medical cannabis within the legal frameworks and guidelines provided. In the UK, this means consuming it in approved forms (not smoking) and adhering to the legalities surrounding its use, including driving restrictions.
- Professional Guidance: Seeking advice and obtaining your prescription from a trusted and experienced medical professional is paramount. This ensures you receive the most suitable strains for your symptoms and medical history, providing a tailored approach to your IBS management.
Medical research and studies on cannabis for IBS
Research on the use of cannabis for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is in its early stages, but initial findings are promising. While further research is necessary, current studies indicate that cannabis could be beneficial in the management of IBS symptoms.
Several studies have explored the effectiveness of cannabis in treating IBS symptoms. Some research suggests that cannabinoids can reduce pain and cramping and improve overall bowel function (hence alleviating diarrhoea and constipation). These effects may be attributed to the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of cannabinoids.
It is, however, important to highlight that the effectiveness of cannabis for IBS may vary between individuals. Some people may experience significant symptom relief, while others may have a more limited response. Factors such as the type and severity of IBS symptoms, individual sensitivity to cannabinoids and the specific strain and dosage used can all influence the outcomes.
Indica strains for IBS
In the context of managing the symptoms of IBS, the main benefit of Indica strains is their ability to soothe abdominal pain and cramping. Furthermore, Indica strains can promote effective and comfortable digestion by alleviating these symptoms.
More broadly, Indica strains can help to reduce stress. This is particularly valuable for IBS sufferers, as stress is a known trigger for the condition.
Likewise, Indica-dominant options can also help promote sleep. Again, this is particularly useful for IBS sufferers as flare-ups can make it hard for them to get sufficient high-quality sleep. This can have a significant, negative impact on their overall health and well-being (physical and mental).
Indica strains generally have a slightly higher CBD content than Sativa options. CBD can also help to soothe inflammation. This is believed to play a role in triggering flare-ups of IBS.
Side effects of Indica strains
The main potential side effects of Indica strains are mental fog/fatigue, dry mouth/thirst, and hunger pangs. These effects are usually temporary and fade quickly.
Recommended Indica strains for IBS
| Strain name (Brand) | THC / CBD | Dominant terpenes | IBS-relevant effects |
| OG Kush (Khiron T22) | 22% / <1% | Myrcene, caryophyllene | Promotes deep rest and may ease gastrointestinal tension. |
| Green Kush (Glass Pharms) | 25% / 1% | Myrcene, caryophyllene, linalool | Full-body relaxation that may ease abdominal tension and gut sensitivity. |
| Purple Punch (Adven No 26) | 20% / 1% | Linalool, myrcene, caryophyllene | Encourages deep relaxation and may ease cramping and inflammatory discomfort. |
| Blackberry Balanced (Glass Pharms) | 7% / 10% | Myrcene, limonene, ocimene | Soothes the nervous system without strong intoxication; useful for stress-triggered IBS. |
| MAC-3 (Glass Pharms) | 22% / 1% | Limonene, farnesene, caryophyllene | Helps relieve pain-related stress and supports evening rest. |
| Ultra Sour (4C Labs) | 21% / 1% | Caryophyllene, terpinolene | Reduces overstimulation; useful for evening gut calm and stress-linked flare-ups. |
| Northern Lights (Adven No 9) | 19% / 1% | Myrcene, pinene | Soothing and lightly sedative; aids digestion and sleep when IBS symptoms flare. |
| Pink Kush (4C Labs) | 21% / <1% | Myrcene, linalool, caryophyllene | Deep muscle ease and sedative calm; useful at night during IBS-related stress. |
| L.A. Confidential (Aurora T20) | 20% / <1% | Myrcene, pinene, caryophyllene | Supports full-body relaxation and may help relieve late-day IBS discomfort. |
| OG Kush Gelato (Khiron T19) | 19% / 1% | Limonene, caryophyllene, humulene | Calming with light anti-inflammatory effects; suitable for pain relief without full sedation. |
| Hindu Kush (Khiron T20) | 20% / <1% | Myrcene, humulene | Grounding and body-heavy; may help with gut tension and poor sleep. |
Sativa strains for IBS
In the context of managing the symptoms of IBS, the main benefit of Sativa strains is their ability to soothe inflammation. As previously mentioned, this is strongly implicated in flare-ups of IBS.
More broadly, Sativa strains can help boost a person’s energy and mood. They can therefore help to counterbalance the mental and emotional toll of IBS. For example, using a Sativa strain may help motivate IBS sufferers to be more active. In turn, getting more exercise (and more regular exercise) can benefit their physical and mental health.
Side effects of Sativa strains
| Strain name (Brand) | THC / CBD | Dominant terpenes | IBS-relevant effects |
|---|---|---|---|
| Warlock (Grow Pharma T8:C8) | 8% / 8% | Limonene, caryophyllene | Clear-headed and calming without sedation; suitable for stress-linked flare-ups and mild discomfort. |
| Blue Zushi (Glass Pharms ZUS T20) | 20% / <1% | Limonene, caryophyllene | Uplifting with light body relaxation; may help reduce gut tension and support emotional balance. |
| OG Kush (Khiron T22) | 22% / <1% | Myrcene, caryophyllene | Calm focus and physical ease; offers day-to-evening relief without full couchlock. |
| Strawberry Blitz (Khiron T25 Gelato) | 25% / 1% | Myrcene, limonene | Gently energising while calming the body, may help counter fatigue and support bowel regularity. |
| Hindu Kush (Khiron T20) | 20% / <1% | Myrcene, humulene | Grounding and steadying, may assist with stress-related digestive tension in the afternoon or evening. |
Comparing Indica and Sativa effects for IBS
| Effect area | Indica strains | Sativa strains |
| Abdominal pain & cramps | ✔️ Often reduced through full-body relaxation | ⚪️ Less directly effective |
| Stress & anxiety | ✔️ Calming and grounding | ✔️ Uplifting and mentally supportive |
| Inflammation | ✔️ CBD content and terpenes may ease inflammation | ✔️ Particularly helpful for gut-related inflammation |
| Sleep disruption | ✔️ Sedative properties help improve rest | ⚪️ Can be too stimulating before bed |
| Energy & fatigue | ⚪️ May cause drowsiness | ✔️ Encourages activity and mental clarity |
| Mood stability | ✔️ Eases emotional reactivity | ✔️ Enhances mood and motivation |
| Daytime function | ⚪️ Often better suited to evening use | ✔️ Suitable for active periods and social use |
Format and dosing: what works best for IBS relief?
The way you take your prescribed medical cannabis matters almost as much as the strain itself.
For many patients with IBS, medical cannabis flower used in a dry herb vaporiser is often the go-to. It can offer fairly quick relief from cramps and abdominal pain, particularly when symptoms flare without warning. Vapour reaches the bloodstream faster than oils or capsules, which means it can be especially useful when urgency is part of the picture.
For longer-lasting support, sublingual oils are a popular choice. Just drop the oil under your tongue and let it absorb over a minute or so, helping to maintain a steadier baseline of symptom control. Just be aware, swallowing the oil whole may upset the stomach for some, which rather defeats the point.
A newer arrival on the UK scene, THC vapes offer a blend of speed, ease, and discretion.
They’re pocket-friendly, require no grinding or kit, and are ideal if you need a dose of calm while you’re out and about. If flower feels too involved or oil too slow, one of the new THC vape products might be a practical bridge between the two. Always speak to your prescriber before switching formats as they’ll help you match method to symptoms, lifestyle, and tolerance.
FAQs
Can medical cannabis patients legally smoke their prescribed medication?
In the UK, smoking medical cannabis is illegal. Instead, it must be vaporised or taken in the form of capsules, oils, oral sprays or topical ointments.
Can medical cannabis patients drive while using their prescribed medication?
No, if you are feeling any psychoactive effects, then driving is strictly prohibited. It’s important to follow the instructions provided by your specialist doctor and wait until you feel safe to operate a vehicle.
Can I grow my own medical cannabis for personal use?
No, in the UK, it is currently illegal to grow your own medical cannabis. All medical cannabis must be prescribed and sourced from a licensed producer.
Will medical cannabis get me high?
It depends on the strain and the individual’s reaction to it. Some strains may have higher levels of THC, which is the psychoactive component in cannabis that can cause a “high” feeling. However, the idea behind taking medical cannabis is usually for its medicinal benefits, not for recreational purposes. It’s important to discuss potential side effects with your doctor and find the right strain for your needs and preferences.
Final thoughts
Both Indica and Sativa strains have the potential to offer significant relief for the symptoms of IBS. Picking one specific option may be the wrong way to go about things, with both offering different benefits.
Instead, it may be worth exploring both types and finding the best strains for your individual needs. This can be done with the guidance of a trusted specialist doctor who is both registered to, and experienced in prescribing medical cannabis for IBS. There are a bunch of private medical cannabis clinics for you to choose from, and hopefully, the medical cannabis clinic reviews posted here will help you find the best one for your needs.
