The Leaf THE LEAF May-June 2017 | Page 28

In addition, the findings also showed that CBD reduces mucus hypersecretion – a hallmark characteristic of asthma. While the study was not replicated on humans, the researchers concluded CBD could be a powerful treatment for asthma as it regulates exaggerated inflammatory responses in the body. A study in 2014 also indicated cannabis’ effectiveness for alleviating muscle spasms in the lungs. In fact, the researchers believe this mechanism may explain the acute bronchodilation (expansion of the bronchial air passages in the respiratory tract) produced when ingesting cannabis. Cannabis alleviates asthma-related pain Cannabis reduces muscle spasticity α-Pinene is a terpene found in specific strains of cannabis. It is found in the oils of many coniferous trees, most notably the pine tree, and is also found in the essential oil of rosemary. Bronchospasm, otherwise known as bronchial spasms, are a sudden constriction of the muscles in the lungs. Causing difficulty in breathing, reactions range from mild to severe. For those with asthma, this likely comes as no surprise. Bronchospasms are a hallmark symptom of the condition. But cannabis has shown to be incredibly effective for alleviating, and even eliminating muscle spasms. How is this possible? According to Dr. Jessica Knox, it has to do with two components in specific cannabis strains – CBD and alpha-pinene. “Alpha-pinene and CBD have some muscle spasm relief effect which is crucial to hitting those bronchial muscles and helping them relax so that you can breathe better,” Knox says. By relaxing the muscles in the lungs, the airways expand, allowing for an increase in airflow. An asthma attack may not only cause difficulty in breathing, it can also be painful. While pain is not a primary symptom associated with asthma, over 75% of people who experience an asthma attack also experience chest pain. For those with severe forms of asthma, this pain can be uncomfortable and even debilitating. However, it is important to note though that there are no pain receptors in the lungs. Asthma sufferers primarily experience pain because they are unable to breath properly. When normal airflow is interrupted, additional stress is placed on accessory muscles such as the sternocleidomastoid and scalene. During an asthma attack, these muscles must contract to help expand the ribcage. Because there is additional stress on these muscles, asthma sufferers often experience pain. This is primarily due to the fact that these muscles are rarely (if ever) used for normal breathing. It is essentially the same principle that applies after a tough workout for the first time. When a muscle is worked that has not been used, pain ensues.